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NOTES 



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RELATIVE TO 


THE LATE TRANSACTIONS 


IN THE 


MAR H ATT A EMPIRE 


t 


FORT WILLIAM, DECEMBER 15, J803. 





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LIST OF PLANS. 


j Order of Battle and Encampment at Secundra, to face page 

2 Battle of Assye, - 

3 Attack of Perron’s Camp before Ally Ghur, 

4 Fort of Ally Ghur, - 

5 Battle of Delhi, 

6 Battle of Laswaree, - 






























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IN THE 


MARHATTA EMPIRE. 


■ r 0 , • ’ ,i « 

T HE predatory states composing the Marhatta power, have never been 
united under any regular form of confederation, or by any system of 
constitutional laws, or of established treaties, which can be compared to any 
imperial constitution or general confederation existing in Europe. A vague 
and indefinite sentiment of common interest, however, founded principally 
upon their common origin and civil and religious usages, and upon their com¬ 
mon habits of conquest and depredation, has established a certain degree of 
union amongst them, from the period of their first success, throughout every 
stage of the decline of the Moghul empire ; the same indefinite but acknow¬ 
ledged confederacy has subsisted between the Marhattas since the entire de¬ 
struction of the Moghul empire, and, together with other causes, has enabled 
several of these adventurers to erect' states of considerable military resource 
and political power. 

The power of the Peishwah, however, for many years past has been ac- Jr an account 
knowledged by all the Marhatta states,* and universally by all the other states don of theMar 
of India, to be the constitutional representative of the sovereign executive andofthJpelsh. 
authority of the Marhatta empire, and the principal chieftains have been c °n-Append 
sidered ostensibly as the subjects and officers of the Peishwah’s government. a. 

The British Government, therefore, has concluded its general treaties with 
the Marhattas through the authority of the Peishwah, and although in some 
of those engagements, individual chieftains have been admitted to act as gua¬ 
rantees, the independent right of the Peishwah to conclude treaties with any 
power in India, has never been denied ; nor has it ever been attempted to 

* The- Rajah of Berar does not deny the nominal supremacy of the Rajah of Sattarah, whose 
authority is represented by the Peishwah, nor the sovereign executive powers annexed to the here¬ 
ditary office of Peishwah, but he claims the office of Peishwah for himself in right of his descent 
from the family of Sevajee, the ancestor of the Rajah of Sattarah, and the founder of the 
Marhatta power. 


assert 




TRANSACTIONS IN THE 

assert a claim on the part of any of the chieftains, to limit the independent 
right of the Peishwah to form treaties and alliances without the advice or con¬ 
sent of any chieftain of the Marhatta empire. 

On the other hand, these chieftains have exercised the right of concluding 
treaties and alliances, independently of the Peishwah’s authority, and without 
his sanction or concurrence ; and the British Government recently concluded 
a treaty of subsidy with the Guikwar, without the previous sanction of the 
Peishwah, reserving, however, all the Peishwah’s rights in the state of the 
Guikwar. 

At the commencement of the war against Tippoo Sultaun, in the year 
1789, Lord Cornwallis, in forming a defensive alliance with the Marhatta 
power against the power of Mysore, resorted to the Peishwah’s acknowledged 
authority as the best security for such an alliance, and accordingly nego¬ 
tiated and concluded, on the 1st of June, 1790, the treaty of Poonah with 
the Peishwah, without reference to any of the subordinate chieftains. 

In that war, the assistance which Lord Cornwallis derived from the Mar- 
hattas, "proceeded exclusively from the Peishwah’s authority, aided by the 
feudal tributaries immediately subject to the state of Poonah. Neither Scin- 
diah nor the Rajah of Berar were parties to that alliance, and it is well known 
that Mahdajee Scindiah was adverse to its principles and objects ; and that at 
the close of that war, in 1/92, Mahdajee Scindiah moved his army towards 
Poonah, with intentions unfavourable to the British interests. 

At the conclusion of the war in 17Q2, the Peishwah was a party to the 
treaty of peace at Seringapatam, nor was any attempt made at that time to 
assert a claim on the part of the subordinate chieftains of the Marhatta empire, 
to be consulted in that important arrangement which established a new balance 
of pow&r throughout India, by the reduction of the power of Mysore, by the 
augmentation of the British territories, and of those of the Nizam, and 
finally, of the separate hereditary territories of the Peishwah. 

In the division, therefore, of Tippoo Sultaun’s territory, and of his trea¬ 
sure, which followed the treaty of Seringapatam in 1792, the Peishwah ob¬ 
tained a considerable accession of territory to his hereditary dominions, and a 
large sum of money, without the advice, consent, or participation of any 
'subordinate chieftain of the Marhatta empire. 

When Lord Cornwallis, in the course of the year 17Q3, proposed a general 
defensive alliance to the Marhatta power and to the Nizam, his lordship ad¬ 
dressed the proposition to the Peishwah, and received, as conclusive, a reply 
from the Peishwah through the Durbar of Poonah, without any reference to 
the subordinate chieftains. 

The policy of considering the authority of the Peishwah as the legitimate 
and constitutional representative of the Marhatta power was wise and just. It 
is evident that the acknowledged authority of the Peishwah furnished the most 
secure basis of an amicable alliance between the British Government in India 
and the Marhatta power, and at the same time afforded the most just and 

effectual 



MARHATTA EMPIRE. 


effectual means of controling the predatory spirit of the subordinate chieftains, 
and of checking any disposition which might arise amongst them of a ten¬ 
dency adverse to the British interests, or to the general tranquillity of India. 

Some of these chieftains, however, appear to have considered the alliance 
between the British Government and the Peishwah to be adverse to their 
interests ; and although its tendency at all times has been rather to secure than 
to disturb the feudatory Marhatta states in the possession of their separate ter¬ 
ritories and distinct rights, their characteristic spirit of habitual rapacity and 
lawless ambition has inclined them to view with jealousy an alliance, the vigour 
and efficiency of which must always have opposed obstacles to any invasion of 
the legitimate authority of the Peishwah. 

During the period of time which elapsed between the conclusion of the 
peace of Seringapatam, in ] 7 Q 2 , and the commencement of Lord Wellesley’s 
administration in India, in May 1 798, the rapacity and ambition of Dowlut 
Rao Scindiah,* had impaired the authority of the Peishwah to such a degree, 
as to have frustrated every benefit which Lord Cornwallis intended to secure to 
the British interests, by the alliance with the Peishwah. 

Dowlut Rao Scindiah had absolutely usurped the government of Poonah, 
and had established himself in the vicinity of that city with apov« rful army, 
the regular infantry and artillery of which had been disciplined, and were then 
commanded principally by French officers. 

When Lord Wellesley, at the close of the year 1798, required the Peish¬ 
wah, in consequence of Tippoo Sultaun’s aggression, to fulfil the conditions 
of the subsisting defensive alliance against Mysore, the justice of that demand 
was deemed irresistible, even by the perverse counsels of Poonah, under the 
undue influence of Dowlut Rao Scindiah. The Peishwah’s ministers, there¬ 
fore, ostensibly acquiesced in the demand, and that experienced statesman, 
Nana Furnavees, who was then verging to the close of his career, would cer¬ 
tainly have fulfilled the conditions of the alliance, had not the wisdom of his 
advice been overborne by the violence of Dowlut Rao Scindiah. 

Under .this overbearing influence, notwithstanding the acquiescence of the 
court of Poonah in the justice and necessity of the war against Tippoo Sultaun 
in 1798, and notwithstanding the Peishwah’s declaration of his intention to 
co-operate in that war according to'the terms of the subsisting alliance, the 
Marhattas not only afforded no assistance to the British Government in the 
prosecution of the war, which terminated on the fourth of May 1 799, but 
actually maintained a secret and treacherous correspondence with Tippoo Sul- 

* Ranojee Scindiah, an officer in the service of Bajee Rao the first Peishwah, had five sons, 
one of whom died young ; the other four were Jye Appa Scindiah, Dutta Jee Puttail, Kiddar Rao 
Scindiah, and Madhajee Scindiah. Jye Appa Scindiah was killed in Jodepoor. Dutta Jee Puttail 
was killed in the vicinity of Delhi, in a battle with Nujeeb-oo-Dowlah, the governor of the 
district of Seharanpoor. ICiddar Rao Scindiah died a natural death. Madhajee Scindiah died 
on the 12th of February 1794, without male issue, and was succeeded on the 3d of March fol- 
lowing by his adopted son, Dowlut Rao Scindiah, who is the son of Kiddar Rao Scindiah. 

B 2 


taun 


TRANSACTIONS IN THE 


taun and his ministers and officers down to the period of the fall of Seringapa- 
tam; and even after that memorable event, the emissaries of the Marhatta 
government (under the domination of Scindiah, who then governed the Durbar 
of Poonah,) attempted to excite the family, and remaining officers of the 
deceased Sultaun, to resist the settlement of Mysore. 

Notwithstanding the entire failure of the Peishwah in discharging the obli¬ 
gations of public faith to the British Government under the alliance concluded 
by Lord Cornwallis with the Marhatta power, Lord Wellesley, in dividing 
Tippoo Sultaun’s dominions in the year I 7QQ, offered a considerable share of 
territory to the Peishwah. The Governor General however annexed to this 
liberal grant, conditions calculated to revive the alliance with the Peishwah on 
a secure basis. The Peishwah therefore was induced by Dowlut Rao Scindiah 
to reject the proffered grant; and consequently the territory which had been 
destined for the Marhattas, was divided between the remaining allies, the 
Nizam and the British Government. 

Propositions of the most amicable nature w r ere at the same time offered to 
Dowlut Rao Scindiah, but when it is recollected that the most efficient part 
of his military power w T as under the command and influence of French adven¬ 
turers, his ejection of all friendly overtures from the British Government may 
be traced to other causes, in addition to that spirit of usurpation and plunder 
which urged him to seize the government of Poonah, to prohibit the Peishw ah 
from cementing the ties of amity with his Highness’s antientally the Company, 
and even to compel that unfortunate prince to violate his public faith with the 
Company, at the expence not only of reputation and honour, but of every 
interest which the Peishw r ah could he supposed to feel as a sovereign prince, in 
the independence of his own authority, in the security of his own power, and 
in the extension of his hereditary territory and revenue. 

Previously therefore to the commencement of the last war in Mysore, the 
usurpation of a subordinate chieftain of the Marhatta empire, had in effect 
dissolved the alliance formed by Lord Cornwallis with the Marhatta power, 
upon the basis of the Peishwah’s authority ; and Dowlut Rao Scindiah, the 
chieftain, by whose usurpation the alliance between the Marhatta power and 
the British Government had been dissolved, had effected that object by the 
presence of a powerful army formed under the command of French adventurers, 
and considerably advanced in discipline; military skill and science, under a 
system of which the further progress will appear in the narrative of .the events 
of the present w T ar. 

The destruction of the hostile power of Mysore, accompanied by the conso¬ 
lidation of our alliances with the court of Hyderabad, had left no antagonist 
to the British Government among the native states in India, excepting the 
Marhatta power. 

The Marhatta states, unconnected with any European ally, could never 
become formidable to the British Government, excepting in the event of ail 
actual union of the feudal chiefs of the empire, under an efficient sovereign 

power. 



MARHATTA EMPIRE. 


power, or in the event of a revolution, which should unite the command of the 
resources of a large portion of the Marhatta territory, in the hands of an active 
and enterprising chief. Such events, however to be deprecated, might have 
been encountered without apprehension by the British Government, in the 
commanding position of its foreign relations, and in the vigorous condition of 
its internal resources, and concentrated strength. 

But it was obviously prudent to employ every endeavour to effect such an 
arrangement, as should preclude the union of the Marhatta states under any cir¬ 
cumstances, which might menace interruption to the tranquillity of our posses^’ 
sions, or of those of our allies. With this view it appeared to be expedient to re¬ 
ceive under the protection of the general defensive system, of which the foun¬ 
dation was laid by the treaty with the Nizam concluded in 1 S 00 , such of the 
Marhatta states as might be disposed to enter into subsidiary engagements with' 
the British Government: on this principle a subsidiary treaty was concluded with 
the Guikwar in 1802 , the operation of which attached that state to the Com¬ 
pany, and secured to the Company a valuable and important territorial establish¬ 
ment in the maritime province of Guzerat. The most effectual arrangement, 
however, for securing the British Government against any danger from the 
Marhatta states, appeared to be an intimate alliance with the acknowledged 
sovereign power of the Marhatta empire, founded upon principles, which 
should render the British influence and military force the main support of that 
power. Such an arrangement appeared to afford the best security for preserv¬ 
ing a due balance between the several states constituting the confederacy of 
the Marhatta empire, as well as for preventing any dangerous union, or diver¬ 
sion of the resources of that empire. 

It has always been a principal object of the British Government, to prevent 
the sovereign power of the Marhatta state, or the power of any great branch of 
the Marhatta empire, from passing into the hands of France. While the views' 
of the government of France shall be directed to the establishment of its 
authority within the peninsula of Hindostan, it is manifestly the policy of the 
British Government to accomplish such a system of alliances wdth the powers 
of India, as may preclude the occurrence of those internal convulsions, which 
would afford to France, the most favourable opportunity of effecting her ambi¬ 
tious purpose. v 

The disturbed state of the Marhatta empire, would have afforded an advan¬ 
tageous opportunity to the government of France, for the successful prosecution 
of its favourite object, of establishing a dominion within the peninsula of Hin¬ 
dostan, by the introduction of a military force, for the purpose of aiding the,, 
cause of one of the contending parties; and the views of Trance would have of Mons. p e r- 
been materially favoured by the strength and efficiency of Monsieur Perron’s ‘vea® a * 
force, established w'ith a great territorial dominion extending towards the left 
bank of the Indus through the Punjaub,* and comprehending Agra, Delhi, and Appendix b. 

* Punjaub , (or the country of the five rivers) the country contained between the five branches of 
the river Indus, from the 30th to the 33d degree of north latitude, and from the 70th to the 75th 
degree of east longitude. 


6 


TRANSACTIONS IN THE 


a large portion of the Doab of the Jumna and Ganges, on the most vulnerable 
part of our north-western frontier of Hindostan ; and holding the person and 
nominal authority of the unfortunate Shah Aulum, (the deposed Moghul 
Emperor,) in the most abject and degrading subjection.* 

The endeavours of the Governor General have therefore been employed for 
some years past, to establish between the Peishwah and the British Government, 
such a connection, as might secure the stability and efficiency of the Peishwah s 
authority, under the protection of the British power, without injury to the rights 
of the feudatory chieftains of the Marhatta empire. 

The efforts of the Governor General for that purpose, were renewed at those 
seasons of difficulty and danger, when the Peish wall’s independence was con- 
troled, and when the existence of his government was exposed to hazard, by the 
violence, rapacity, and ambition of his feudatory chieftains. Had the Peishwah 
then assented to the moderate and salutary propositions which were offered to 
his acceptance, he could not have been exposed to the disastrous event by 
which (on the 25th of October 1802) he was expelled from Poonah, by which 
his authority w ? as subverted, his person endangered, and his country and capital 
abandoned to devastation and plunder. 

Notwithstanding the frequent disappointments which occurred in the accom- 
j U n«. plishment of his salutary views, the Governor General determined in the month 
of June 1802, to renew his negotiations for the conclusion of an improved sys- 
oft^event^t 6111 °falliance with the court of Poonah. The increased distractions of the 
A id wWch pe on X Marhatta state, and the successes of Jeswunt Rao Holkar, (an illegitimate son 
tains an account of the late Tuckojee Holkar,) against the forces of Scindiah, appeared to con- 
umiij. Holkar stitute a crisis of affairs, favourable to the complete establishment of the interests 


* The annual revenue of the countries subject to Monsieur Perron derived from the territorial 
possessions, as well as from other resources, are stated to have amounted to one crore and thirty-jive 
lacs of rupees , or about ,£ .1,700,000 sterling. 

Although the regular corps in Scindiah’s service were first formed by Monsieur De Boigne, it was 
his practice to admit into the service, British as well as French officers; but since his resignation, the 
object of Monsieur Perron (who succeeded to his authority) has been directed to the exclusion of 
British officers, and to the establishment of a military power, exclusively commanded by Frenchmen. 
This plan had been carried into effect with considerable success; and Monsieur Perron, it is sup¬ 
posed, only waited the arrival of French officers, to dismiss the whole body of British officers 
remaining in the service of Scindiah. 

Dowlut Rao Scindiah holds the appointment of Deputy to the Vaquel ul Mutuluk, which last is 
an office similar to that of a regent or viceroy, exercising almost independent powers of sovereignty 
under the Great Moghul. 

The office of Vaquel ul Mutuluk being holden by the Peishwah, Scindiah in his quality of deputy, 
administered the affairs of the nominal Moghul empire, and the fiction was carried to so great a 
* length, that Monsieur Perron called his army the “ Imperial Armyf and himself a servant and 
subject of the Emperor or Great Moghul. 

There is every reason to believe that the Government of France intended to make the unfortunate 
Emperor of Hindostan the main instrument of their designs in India, and to avail themselves of the 
authority of his Majesty’s name to re-establish their influence and power. A plan to this effect was 
actually submitted to the Chief Consul of France in 1801, by an officer who afterwards accompanied 
General Decaen to India in 1803. A copy of this plan is now in the possession of the Governor 
General. 


of 


MARHATTA EMPIRE. 

of the British power in the Marhatta empire, without the hazard of involving 
it in a contest with any party. 

The danger to w T hich Scindiah’s separate dominions and hereditary interests 
had been exposed by the success of Holkar, and the ruin which must have en¬ 
sued to Scindiah’s affairs, if Holkar had been able to establish himself in the usur¬ 
pation of the Peish wall’s government, appeared to constitute sufficient motives 
to counterbalance both Scindiah’s jealousy of the British power, and his inordi¬ 
nate desire of usurping the same authority at Poonah, which Holkar was pre¬ 
pared to seize. Scindiah’s immediate personal safety was endangered, and the 
restoration of the Peishwah under the British protection at that moment 
offered the only probable means of affording Scindiah a respite from the violence 
of Holkar. On the other hand, Holkar being a mere adventurer, and his re¬ 
sources and power altogether precarious, might have been expected to relinquish 
without regret his pursuits of irregular ambition and temporary rapine at Poo¬ 
nah, for the more secure and substantial benefit of a permanent establishment 
under the British protection. 

In the course of the discussions which ensued between his Highness the Peish¬ 
wah, and the British Resident, in consequence of the Governor General’s instruc¬ 
tions of the 23 d of June 1802 , the Peishwah manifested considerable anxiety to 
contract engagements with the British Government, but continued (under the 
terror of that ascendancy which Scindiah, although absent, still continued to 
maintain over the counsels of the Peishwah, and w ith the habitual irresolution 
of a Marhatta,) to withhold his consent to any admissible modification of the 
Governor General’s propositions, until Jeswunt Rao Holkar actually arrived at 
the head of a large army, in the neighbourhood of Poonah. The combined 
army of the Peishwah and of Scindiah marched from Poonah under the com¬ 
mand of Suddasheo Bhow, for the purpose of encountering Holkar’s force. 
On the 25 th of October 1802 , the tw 7 o armies engaged, and on the same day, 
the Peishwah sent his minister to the British Resident with a paper, desiring 
the establishment of a subsidiary force of six battalions of sepoys, with the 
usual complement of artillery, and conveying a sunnud (or grant) for territory 
to the annual amount 6 f twenty-five lacs of rupees, proposed to be ceded in 
perpetuity to the honourable Company, for the payment of that force. The 
minister at the same time assured the Resident, of the Peishwah’s earnest desire, 
that a general defensive alliance should be concluded and carried into effect, at 
the earliest practicable period of time, between his Highness and the Company, 
on the principles of the treaty concluded at Hyderabad, in the month of Octo¬ 
ber 1800 . No reason existed to warrant a doubt of the Peishwah’s sincerity, 
to the extent compatible with the timidity of his character. His Highness 
might be deemed to be indifferent to the success of either contending party, 
and to be equally menaced by the usurpation of Scindiah and by that of Holkar. 
The approach of Holkar, however, relieved the Peishwah from any immediate 
fear of Scindiah, and left his Highness at liberty to embrace the British pro¬ 
tection. 


October 23 . 


The 


8 


TRANSACTIONS IN THE 


1802. The Governor General ratified this engagement on the day on which he rc- 
CC * IVC( 1 it* and signified to the Peishwah, his determination to employ every 
effort of the British power, for the restoration of his Highness’s just authority. 
With a view to include the several branches of the Marhatta empire in the 
proposed general alliance, the Governor General availed himself of this oppor¬ 
tunity to renew his invitation to Dowlut Rao Scindiah, to partake the benefits 
of the treaty proposed to be concluded with the Peishwah, and accordingly 
directed Colonel Collins to proceed from Futty Ghur to Scindiah’s camp, for 
the purpose of proposing the terms, on which Scindiah might be admitted to 
the benefits of the general defensive engagements, already concluded with the 
Peishwah. 

The engagement between the combined army of the Peishwah and Scindiah, 
and that commanded by Holkar, terminated in the total defeat of the former, 
with considerable loss. After the action, the Peishwah retired with an incon¬ 
siderable body of cavalry to a fortress in the vicinity of Poonah, w r hence he pro¬ 
secuted his march towards the Cokan.* 

The object of Holkar was to obtain possession of the person of his Highness 
* the Peishwah, and to compel his Highness to establish such an administration, 

as might secure Holkar’s ascendancy, to the exclusion of Scindiah’s power. In 
the event of the failure of this project, the second plan of Holkar was to invite 
to Poonah, Amrut Rao, (the adopted son of the late Ragobah,) to place the 
son of Amrut Rao on the musnud, and invest Amrut Rao with the office of 
prime minister. Holkar himself was to assume the general command of the 
troops of the state. 

Finding that the Peishwah had effected his retreat to Mhar, a fort in the 
Cokan, situated on the river of Bancoote, Holkar detached a force to Jejoory, a 
fort about thirty miles south-east of Poonah, and the actual residence of Amrut 
Rao, and brought that chieftain to Poonah for the purpose of carrying this 
plan into execution ; and although Amrut Rao appears to have been adverse to 
the arrangement, the affairs of government were, in conformity to Holkar’s 
plan, conducted at Poonah under the authority of Amrut Rao’s name. 

In the mean while, the Peishwah signified to the government of Bombay, 
that it was his Highness’s intention to seek refuge at that presidency, and his 
Highness actually availed himself of the offer which had been made to him of 
the ship Herculean, for the purpose of conveying him from Mhar to a strong 
fort in another part of the Cokan, named Savendroog, where his person was 
likely to be perfectly secure against the attempts of the rebels and usurpers. 

In the existing state of the affairs of the Marhatta empire, it would have 
been a measure of indispensible precaution to have assembled a considerable 
army of observation upon the frontier of the Marhatta territories, for the pur¬ 
pose of securing our own provinces, and those of our allies the Nizam and the 
Rajah of Mysore, against the attack of the chiefs at Poonah, as well as of repelling 

* The narrow tract of country along the western coast of India, contained between the province 
of Canara and Bombay, and bounded by the western Ghauts. 

the 


MARHATTA. EMPIRE. 


the predatory incursion of any vagrant freebooter, w hom the issue of the con- 
test might compel to seek subsistence in the British dominions, or in those of v '""^ 
our allies. These important considerations, combined with the application 
made to the Governor of Fort St. George, by the Resident at Poonah, acting 
under the orders of the Governor General, induced Lord Clive early in the 
month of November 1802 , to assemble a considerable force at Hurryhur,* on 
the north-w’estern frontier of Mysore, without waiting the arrival of direct in¬ 
structions from the Governor General for that purpose. The Governor of 
Bombay pursued the same wise and salutary course of vigilance and precaution, 
by preparing for immediate service the disposable force at that presidency. A 
considerable detachment of the subsidiary force at Hyderabad, w r as also ordered 
by the Resident at that court, to be prepared for eventual service in the field, 
in conformity to a requisition for that purpose from the Resident at Poonah. 

During these transactions, several conferences were holden at Poonah, 
between the Resident Lieutenant Colonel Close, Holkar, and Amrut Rao, in 
which both these chieftains expressed their solicitude for the preservation of the 
friendship of the British Government, and directly and earnestly applied to the 
Resident, for his advice and mediation in effecting an accommodation with the 
Peishwah. About the same time, the Governor General also received a letter 
from Dowlut Rao Scindiah, under date the 24 th November, soliciting the con¬ 
tinuance of the friendship of the British Government towards his state, and that 
of the Peishwah, and containing a request, that the Governor General would 
act in concert with Scindiah during the existing crisis of affairs at Poonah. 

Having with difficulty obtained permission to quit Poonah, Lieutenant 
Golonel Close, the British Resident, left that capital on the 28 th of November, November 25. 


Forces assembled at Hurryhur under the command of Lieutenant General Stuart. 


Cavalry. Eur. 

Nat. 

Total. 

H. M. 19th Dragoons, ) 

25th do. - i 915 

2606 — 

-3581 

Artillery, - 390 

Gun Lascars, - - - - - 

563 

39 ° 

Infantry. 


5 Companies of H. M. 33d Regiment, ^ 



H. M. - - 73<L ditto, 1 

H. M. - - 74th ditto, f 

2845 

' 

H. M..Scotch Brigade, J 

12 Battalions of Sepoys, - 

12,182 



Abstract. 

Cavalry, - - 3581 

Artillery, - - 390 

European Infantry, - 2845 

Native Infantry, - 12,182 


- 15,027, 

Total 18,998 


18,998 

With 800 pioneers, and 563 gun lascars; with 4 iron twelve and 4 iron eighteen pounders ; 
4 brass twelve pounders •> 40 field pieces, 12 galloper guns, and four howitzers. 

C and 




10 


TRANSACTIONS IN TIIE 


• December 16. 


December 18. 



February 2. 


February 27. 


and reached Bombay on the 3d of December. The capital of the Marhatta 
empire remained in the possession of the rebels and usurpers. Towards the 
end of the month of November, the Peishwah embarked from Savendroog, 
under convoy of the Herculean, and arrived at Bassein on the lOth of Decem¬ 
ber, attended by a small escort of about one hundred and thirty followers. His 
Highness was immediately waited upon by Lieutenant Colonel Close, and the 
18th of December was fixed for the day on which the Peishwah would enter 
on the discussion of the definitive treaty with the British Government. Ac¬ 
cordingly, early in the morning of the 18th of December 1802, Lieutenant 
Colonel Close attended the Peishw T ah at his Highness’s place of residence on 
the island of Bassein, and submitted to his Highness’s consideration, a draft of 
the definitive treaty of alliance proposed to be concluded The discussion 
lasted until sunset, by which time the Peishwah and his ministers agreed to 
the draft with some alterations, which w r ere admitted by Colonel Close. The 
treaty w 7 as signed, sealed, and delivered on the 31st December 1802 at Bassein, 
and on the 18th of March 1803, the Peishwah received the counterpart of the 
treaty, ratified by the Governor General in Council, with demonstrations of the 
highest satisfaction. 

In conformity to the plan of operations which the Governor General had 
directed to be adopted for the restoration of the Peishwah to the musnud at 
.Poonah, the whole of the subsidary force * stationed with his Highness the 
Nizam, amounting to about 8308 men, marched from Hyderabad at the close 
of the month of February, and on the 25th of March, reached the town of 
Paraindah, a station on the western frontier of the Nizam’s dominions, situated 
at the distance of one hundred and sixteen miles from Poonah. The subsidiary 
force was accompanied by 0 ,ooo of the Nizam’s disciplined infantry, and about 
9,000 cavalry, under leaders of approved valour and attachment. 

Under instructions from the Governor General of the 2d February 1803, 
Lord Clive, aided by the judgment of Lieutenant General Stuart, was em¬ 
powered to determine the time at which it might be proper for the British 
troops to advance into the Marhatta territories, and the amount of the force 
to be detached from the main army assembled on the frontier of Mysore for 
that purpose. 

Adverting to the importance and expediency of securing the early arriral of 
the British troops at Poonah, Lord Clive on the 27 th February, instructed 
Lieutenant General Stuart, then present with the army on the frontier of 
Mysore, to adopt the necessary measures for the march of the British troops 
into the Marhatta territory, leaving it to the judgment of Lieutenant General 
Stuart to determine the amount of the force necessary to be detached from the 
main body of the army. 

The command of the advanced detachment necessarily required the united 
exertion of considerable military skill, and of great political experience and 

* Subsidiary force; two regiments of native cavalry, six battalions of sepoys, and two companies 
of artillery. 

discretion; 


MARHATTA EMPIRE. 11 

discretion ; and Lord Clive was therefore of opinion, that it could not be IS03 - 
confided with equal prospects of advantage to any other person, than the Hon. 

Major General Wellesley, whose extensive local knowledge, and personal 
influence among the Marhatta chieftains, (acquired by his conduct in the 
command of Mysore, and by his victories over Doondiah and other refractory 
chiefs) were peculiarly calculated to ensure success to the intended operations. 

Lord Clive accordingly desired that General Wellesley might be appointed to^ 
the command of the advanced detachment, under instructions to be fur¬ 
nished to him by Lieutenant General Stuart, according to the spirit of the \ 
Goyernor General’s orders of the 2d of February 1803. 

In conformity to those instructions. Lieutenant General Stuart directed a 
detachment from the main army assembled at Hurryhur, to be formed under 
the command of Major General Wellesley, for the purpose of advancing into 
the Marhatta territory. The detachment consisted of one regiment of Euro¬ 
pean, and three regiments of native cavalry, two regiments of European and 
six battalions of native infantry, with a due proportion of artillery, amounting 
all together to about 9707 men, and to this force was added 2500 of the Rajah 
of Mysore’s horse.* 

Major General Wellesley commenced his march from Hurryhur on the 9 th The detach- 
of March, and crossed the Tumbudra river on the 12th. The progress of the M^or^tnerai 
British troops through the Marhatta territories, was most successful. They' com ' 
were every where received as friends, and almost all the chiefs in the vicinity march toward* 
of the route of the detachment, joined with their forces, and accompanied the gthMarch.' e 
British army to Poonah. The amicable conduct of the Jagheerdars, and of March12, 
the inhabitants (arising principally from the fame which the British arms had 
acquired in the campaign under Major General Wellesley’s command against 
Doondiah Waugh,) contributed to enable our army to perform this long march 
at a most unfavourable season of the year, without loss or distress. Great 
merit is also to be ascribed to the ability, temper, activity, and skill of Major 
General Wellesley in directing the system of the supply and movement of the 
troops, in preventing plunder and all excess, and in conciliating the inhabitants 
of the districts through which his route was directed. 

The Nizam’s subsidiary force under Colonel Stevenson, arrived within a 
short distance of Major General Wellesley’s force at Akloofs, a town within 
eight miles of the Neera river, on the 15th of April, and was the next day April 15. 
reinforced from Major General Wellesley’s army, by his Majesty’s Scotch 
brigade. Jeswunt Rao Holkar had left Poonah some time previous to this 
period, and the native officers who commanded the corps which he had detached 

* Here it may be observed that the power and resources of Mysore which had hitherto been 
opposed to us in every contest with the native states of India, were now, in consequence of the 
conquest of Seringapatam in 1799, applied to the aid of the British Government,. and afforded 
essential assistance. By the subsidiary treaty of Seringapatam concluded in 1799,- the Rajah of 
Mysore is bound to co-operate in the most effectual manner with the’ British Government when 
engaged in hostilities. 


to 


TRANSACTIONS IN THE 


12 

isos. £ 0 the southward, retreated with precipitation as General Wellesley advanced. 
On the 15th of April, Holkar had reached Chandore, (about one hundred and 
thirty miles N. N! E. from Poonah),and Amrut Rao alone remained atPoonah 
•with about 1500 men. 

Under these circumstances, it appeared to Major General Wellesley unne¬ 
cessary to advance to Poonah all the troops destined to effect the restoration 
of the Peishwah; and as the country was much exhausted, and a general 
deficiency of forage prevailed, General Wellesley determined to dispose of the 
troops in such situations, that the whole might procure forage and subsist¬ 
ence, and might easily form a junction, in case that measure should appear to 
be adviseable. Accordingly, General Wellesley ordered Colonel Stevenson to 
march from his position, near Akloofs, to Gardoon; to leave near that place, 
within the Nizam’s dominions, all his Highness’s troops; and to place himself, 
with the British subsidiary troops, in a position on the Beemah river, towards 
Poonah, near its junction with the Mota Mola river. 

After having completed these arrangements, General Wellesley continued 
his march towards Poonah, by the road of Baramooty. The General had 
received repeated intimations from Colonel Close, that Amrut Rao, who still 
remained at Poonah, intended to plunder and burn that city on the approach 
of the British.troops; and, at last. Major General Wellesley received an urgent 
request from the Peishwah, then at Bassein, to detach some of his Highness’s 
troops, in order to provide for the safety of his Highness’s family, still re¬ 
maining at Poonah. It was obvious, that even if General Wellesley could 
have prevailed on the officers of the Peishwah’s troops to march to Poonah, 
the force was not of a description or strength to prevent the execution of 
Amrut Rao’s design; and General Wellesley determined, therefore, to move 
forward with the British cavalry, and the Marhatta troops belonging to the 
Peishwah, as soon as the British army should arrive within the distance of a 
forced march from Poonah. In the mean time intelligence was received, that 
April is. Amrut Rao was still in the neighbourhood of Poonah, on the 1 8th of April, 
and that he had removed the Peishwah’s family to the fortress of Saoghur; a 
measure, which was generally supposed to be preparatory to the destruction 
of the city. Major General Wellesley therefore marched on the lQth of 
April 19 . April, 1803, at night, over a most rugged country, and through a difficult 
pass, (the little Bhoorghaut,) about forty miles to Poonah, which city he 
Arjrii 20 . ^reached at the head of the cavalry on the 20th; making the total distance 

wel°esi^r enera marched by the cavalry, with Major General Wellesley, in person, at their 
miks^in thirty-head, since the morning of the lyth (thirty-two hours), about sixty miles, 
two hours, and Amrut Rao heard of the march of the British troops early on the morniner 
Poonah from or the 20th, and retired with precipitation, leaving the city in safety. Major 
AjM^Rao.General Wellesley, and the British troops, were welcomed as the deliverers of 
the city, by the few inhabitants w 7 ho remained; and those who deserted their 
habitations, and had fled to the adjoining hills during the usurpation of 
Holkar, afforded a proof of their confidence in the British Government, by 

immediately 


MARHATTA EMPIRE. 

immediately returning to their houses, and by resuming their different occu¬ 
pations. It is a circumstance equally honourable to the British character, and 
propitious to the British interests in that quarter of India, that the first effects 
of the British influence in the Marhatta dominions, should have been displayed 
in rescuing the capital of the empire from impending ruin, and its inhabitants 
from violence and rapine. 

During the progress of these transactions, arrangements were made at Arrangements 
Bombay for the march of the Peishwah towards Poonah. A detachment*, the B reTum y o f f r 
consisting of his Majesty’s 78th regiment, (which the Governor General em- 
barked from Fort William on the 7th of February, and which arrived at 
Bombay on the 5th of-April, 1803,) five companies of his Majesty’s 84th 
regiment, a proportion of artillery, and 1035 sepoys, was formed and placed 
under the command of Colonel Murray, of his Majesty’s 84th regiment, as 
an escort to his Highness; who left Bassein,attended by the Resident, Lieu¬ 
tenant Colonel Close, on the 27th of April, 1803. April27. 

On the Oth of May, the Peishwah passed Major General Wellesley’s camp, May 6 . 
near Poonah; and on the 13th of the same month, his Highness, attended by ^ 3y t ? 3 ~^ 
his brother Chimnajee Appa, and by a numerous train of the principal chiefs Peishwah to 
of the Marhatta empire, proceeded towards the city of Poonah. Having p 0 e 0 ^ nud at 
entered his palace, his Highness resumed his seat upon the musnud, and 
received presents from his principal servants. 

During the procession, the British Resident, Lieutenant Colonel Close, 
accompanied by his suite, paid his compliments to his Highness; when a 
salute was fired by the British troops encamped in the vicinity of Poonah, 
under the command of Major General Wellesley. This salute was imme¬ 
diately answered from the fortress of Saoghur. 

While the procession passed the bridge leading into the city, a second 
salute was fired from the British camp; and as the Peishwah approached the 
place, salutes were fired from the several posts of the Marhatta troops. At 
sun-set, salutes were fired from all the hill forts in the vicinity of Poonah. 

While these transactions passed at Poonah, Dowlut Rao Scindiah had col-Transactions at 
lected a large force at Ougeinf, with the professed view of oppoing JeswuntDovdutRao 
Rao Holkar; and having commenced his march from that capital towards Scindiah - 

* Detachment forming the Peishwah’s escort, under the command of Colonel Murray, of his 


Majesty’s 84th regiment: 

Europeans - -- -- -- -- --1170 
Natives - -- -- -- -- -- - 1035 

Artillery - ----------- 93 

Total - - 2298 


With 177 gun Lascafs. 

f Ougein is Scindiah’s capital, situated near the ancient city of Mundu, the capital of the 
Chillingi Kings of Malwa. Ougein is about forty miles north or north-west of Indore , Holkar’s 
capital. These two cities are situated in the province of Malwa, which is divided between the 
Peishwah, Scindiah, and Holkar. 



Poonah, 






14 


TRANSACTIONS IN THE 



February 23. 


February 27. 


March 24. 


May 28. 


Poonah, crossed the Nerbudda river on the 4th of February, 1803, and 
arrived in the vicinity of Boorhanpoor on the 23d of that month. 

Colonel Collins, the British Resident, dispatched by the Governor General 
from Futty-Ghur, arrived at the camp of Dowlut Rao Scindiah on the 27 th 
February, 1803. The advices which the Governor General had received from 
Colonel Collins, and from other quarters, induced his Lordship to entertain sus¬ 
picions, that Scindiah, notwithstanding his specious professions, being now de¬ 
livered by the interposition of the British power, from the immediate fear of the 
superiority of Holkar, meditated an accommodation with Holkar, and a confe¬ 
deracy wdth that chieftain, and w ith the Rajah of Bcrar, for the purpose of sub¬ 
verting the treaty concluded by the British Government with the Peishwah at 
Bassein. This suspicion was corroborated by the artifices practised at the camp 
of Scindiah, upon the arrival of Colonel Collins, with a view of eluding the 
communication of the propositions with which Colonel Collins was charged, 
under the authority of the Governor General. The intricacy, perverse po¬ 
licy, and treachery of such an intrigue, however contrary to every principle of 
true wisdom and justice, are habitual to the low cunning and captious jealousy 
of the Marhattas. Colonel Collins therefore, on the 24th March, 1803, 
demanded and obtained an audience of Dowlut Rao Scindiah, for the purpose 
of requiring an explanation of the suspected intrigue; w'hen that chieftain, in 
the presence of all his principal ministers, positively assured Colonel Collins, 
That he had no intention whatever to obstruct the completion of the arrangements 
concluded between the Peishwah and the British Government: and that it 
was his wish to improve the friendship then subsisting between the Peishwah, 
the British Government, and his own state. 

Notwithstanding this amicable declaration, the Governor General had great 
cause to doubt the sincerity of Scindiah’s professions; while the increasing 
rumours of the supposed confederacy between that chieftain, Jeswunt Rao 
Holkar, and the Rajah of Berar, rendered it absolutely necessary for the 
British Government to bring the question of the supposed confederacy to a 
determination ; and in the event of the actual formation of such a confederacy, 
to prepare the British Government and its allies for a contest with the con¬ 
federated chieftains., 

Colonel Collins therefore, in a conference on the 23th of May, commu¬ 
nicated to Scindiah the representations which he had been directed to make, 
in conformity to instructions from the Governor General, under date the 5 th 
May, by which Colonel Collins was desired to require the immediate return 
to Hindostan of Scindiah with his army ; because Dowlut Rao Scindiah 
possessed no right to impede the accomplishment of the treaty of Bassein, 
unless his own security was endangered by that arrangement; because the 
advance of his army must , necessarily have prevented the due execution of that 
treaty; and because Scindiah (having,.on the 24th of March, formally dis¬ 
avowed an intention of obstructing the engagements concluded between the 
Peishwan and the British Government,) his paarch to Poonah, or his conti- 

• nuance 




MARHATTA EMPIRE. 


nuance south of the Nerbudda fiver*, were incompatible with that declara¬ 
tion, and could not be reconciled to any other policy, than a determined 
intention to disturb those engagements, and to re-estabiish his' former usurped 
ascendancy in the government of Poonah. 

Colonel Collins, at the same time, delivered to Scindiah a copy of the treaty 
of Bassein. Scindiah, after having considered the articles of the treaty, de¬ 
clared, that it contained, no stipulations injurious to his just rights. In con¬ 
formity to the Governor General’s instructions. Colonel Collins required Scin¬ 
diah to state the nature of his late negociations with the Rajah of Berar, and 
with Jeswunt Rao Holkar; intimating also to Scindiah, the resolution of the 
Governor General to resist any attempt on the part of any state or power, to 
obstruct the complete execution of the treaty of Bassein. 

The Resident (Colonel Collins) also apprized Dovvlut Rao Scindiah, that, 
in the event of his refusing to afford the just and reasonable explanations and 
assurances which the Resident demanded, and of his continuing to prosecute 
military operations in opposition to the Resident’s remonstrances, the British. 
Government would be compelled to adopt measures of precaution on every 
boundary of that chieftain’s dominions: the Resident added, agreeably to the 
Governor General’s instructions, that certain intelligence of the accession of 
Dowlut Rao Scindiah to any confederacy against the British power would 
produce immediate hostility on all parts of his frontier. 

In reply, Scindiah repeatedly declared, in public durbar, that he could not 
afford the satisfaction demanded, until a meeting should have taken place 
between him and the Rajah of Berar, when the British Resident should be 
informed “ whether it would be peace or war.” 

It is impossible not to contrast this unprovoked menace of hostility with the 
temperate declaration of the Governor General, intimating a conditional in¬ 
tention to adopt measures of precaution on every boundary of Scindiah’s do¬ 
minions, in the event only of that chieftain continuing to prosecute military 
operations, in opposition to the remonstrances of the Resident, and refusing to 
afford the reasonable explanations which the Resident had demanded. In 
the sequel of the Governor General’s declaration, which adverted to the ex¬ 
treme case of ultimate hostility, that eventual case is stated to have been 
contemplated by the Governor General in the single event of Scindiah having 
actually acceded to a confederacy against the British power, which act, on the 
part of Scindiah, would alone have constituted a positive aggression. The 
insult offered to the British Government by a reference of the question of peace 
or war to the result of a conference with the Rajah of Berar, who, at the head 
of a considerable army, had reached the vicinity of Dowlut Rao Scindiah’s 
camp at Eidalabad, together with the indication which Scindiah’s abrupt de¬ 
claration, and the approaching junction of his army with that of the Rajah of 
Berar afforded, of a disposition, on the part of those chieftains, to prosecute 
the supposed objects of their confederacy, rendered it the duty of the British 

* The Nerbudda river forms the southern boundary of Hindostan Proper. 

Government 


iG . TRANSACTIONS IN THE 

isos. Government to adopt without delay, the most effectual mpasures for the vin- 
v— “V"“* dication of its dignity, and for the security ot its rights and interests, and 
those of its allies, against any attempt on the part of the confederates to injure 
or invade them. The Governor General accordingly (on the 28 th of June) 
issued private instructions to General Lake, at Cawnpoor, to make the neces¬ 
sary arrangements for assembling the army on the north-west frontier of the 
Company’s dominions, in order to counteract the designs of Dovvlut Rao 
Scindiah and the Rajah of Berar, and to derive every possible benefit to the 
British interests in the event of war. 

t h sd On ^ J une t ^ ie Rajah of Berar arrived within one march of Scin- 
junction of the diah’s camp* at Checkly, on the frontier of the Nizam’s territories, and was met 
h°t C Rao ^ciniby Scindiah on the following morning. From this time the conduct of those 
diah and the c hieFtain S afForded the strongest indications of a resolution on their part, to 
evade the just and reasonable demands of the British (jovernment that they ' 
should withdraw their armies from the menacing position which those armies 
had occupied on the frontier of our ally the Nizam. Although Scindiah had 
distinctly admitted that the treaty of Bassein contained no stipulations inju¬ 
rious to his just rights, both chieftains continued their negociations with Jes- 
wunt Rao Holkar, in order to induce him to join the confederacy against the 
British Government and its allies ; at the same time both chieftains employed 
every endeavour to detach the court of his Highness the Pcishwah, and that 
of his Highness the Nizam, from their alliance with the honourable Com¬ 
pany, by intimidation, menaces and promises of booty and aggrandisement in 
war against the Company. 

The belief that those chieftains entertained designs hostile to the British 

* It appears from the report of Mr. Stuart, a British officer, who was then in Scindiah’s service, 
and afterwards quitted it on the commencement of hostilities, that Scindiah’s force in the vicinity 
of the Nizam’s frontier at this period of time (June i, 1803) amounted to twenty-eight battalions 
of regular infantry, (about 17 or 18,000 men,) and a well appointed train of artillery, amounting 
to one hundred and seventy guns. The regular infantry consisted of Monsieur Polhman’s brigade, 
eight battalions ; Monsieur Dudernaigue’s brigade, seven battalions ; the brigade under Major 
Brownrigg, five battalions ; Monsieur Dupont’s brigade, four battalions; and four battalions be¬ 
longing to Begum Sumroo. Ambajee Inglia’s brigade, consisting, it is stated, of sixteen battalions, 
had a few days before been detached to Hindostan. 

Scindiah’s cavalry amounted to about 18,000 men, and was encamped a short distance from his 
infantry at Mulkapore, at which place Mr. Stuart believes the army of the Rajah of Berar, amount¬ 
ing to 6000 infantry, 20,000 cavalry, and forty guns, to have been at that time stationed. 

The united armies of the confederate chieftains amounted therefore to 23 or 24,000 infantry, 
38,000 cavalry, and about 210 guns, and were encamped within twenty-five or thirty miles of the 
Nizam’s frontier, and of two principal passes, (the Adjuntee and Badowly Ghauts,) leading into 
that prince’s territories. 

This commanding position not only afforded the confederate chieftains the means of menacing the 
tranquillity and security of the Nizam’s dominions, but would have enabled them, (if they had 
not been checked by the British power,) to have commenced a successful attack on the Nizam’s 
territory at soon as the season should admit the commencement of military operations ; to have 
penetrated to Hyderabad for the purpose of interrupting the regular order of succession to the 
musnud of the Dekan; and eventually to have invaded the Company’s provinces, and to have 
made those provinces the theatre of their violence and aggression. 


Government 


MARHATTA EMPIRE. 


17 


Government at the earliest stages of the negociation between the Resident ws. 
and Dowlut Rao Scindiah, is supported by the information, which the Go- v - r v^- 
vernor General has from time to time received of the proceedings of that 
chieftain. 

In a letter from Colonel Collins of the Qth March, 1803 , the Resident ap¬ 
prized the Governor General, that Ambajee Inglia, one of Dowlut Rao Scin- 
diah’s principal ministers, had informed one of the Resident’s native agents, 
that orders had been issued to General Perron, directing him to place the army 
under his command in a state of preparation for the field, with a view to an 
eventual rupture with the British Government. 

At that time Ambajee Inglia was supposed to possess the greatest influence 
over the mind of Scindiah, whose proceedings were said to be principally 
regulated by the councils of that chieftain. It appeared highly improbable 
therefore, that Ambajee would have communicated these orders to the Resi¬ 
dent’s agents, if they had really been issued. This circumstance, induced the 
Governor General to discredit the dispatch of those orders, and to believe 
that the object of the communication was merely to discover the views 
and intentions of the British Government, with respect to Dowlut Rao 
Scindiah. 

The concurrent testimony of facts, and the state of Monsieur Perron’s mi¬ 
litary force, how T ever, which have subsequently been ascertained, confirm the 
information which the Resident communicated in the month of March, re¬ 
specting the dispatch of the orders to General Perron, to the effect above de¬ 
scribed, even at that early stage of our negociations with Dowlut Rao Scin¬ 
diah. The conduct of Ambajee has also been explained by subsequent events ; 
it has appeared by undoubted evidence that Ambajee actually provoked Scin¬ 
diah to war against the Company, and obtained the command in Hindostan 
with the secret purpose of emancipating himself from Scindiah’s power. In 
pursuance of this treacherous project, after having given the information 
stated, to Colonel Collins, Ambajee actually obtained the command of Scin¬ 
diah’s forces in Hindostan, and immediately upon his arrival at Gualior, sent 
proposals of submission to General Lake. In the true spirit of Marhatta faith, 
however, a part of Ambajee’s troops engaged General Lake’s army in the 
memorable battle of Laswaree. 

On the 17th June 1803 , the Governor General received information, that June 1.7. 
Dowlut Rao Scindiah had addressed letters to Ghunnee Bahadur, and Him- 
mut Bahadur, the officers exercising the chief authority on the part of his 
Highness the Peishwah in the province of Bundelcund, requiring them to be 
prepared to co-operate with the confederated Marhatta armies in hostile mea¬ 
sures against the British possessions *, and that Dhurrum Rao, the commanding 
officer of a considerable body of horse, which had been dispatched by Scin¬ 
diah in the month of April to Calpee, (a station on the right bank of the 
Jumna, contiguous to the British territories,) had received orders from Scin¬ 
diah to the same effect. 


D 


On 


TRANSACTIONS IN THE 


On receipt of this information, the Governor General deemed it proper to 
direct the Resident to require Dowlut Rao Scindiah to acknowledge or to dis¬ 
avow those orders, and accordingly, at a conference between the Resident and 
Dowlut Rao Scindiah, holden on the lOth July, the Resident stated the sub¬ 
stance of that information to Dowlut Rao Scindiah, and required him to de¬ 
clare whether he had actually issued orders of the nature described. 

In reply, Dowlut Rao Scindiah assured the Resident in the most solemn 
manner, that he had never issued such orders to the Peishw T ah’s officers in Bun- 
delcund, or to Dhurrum Rao, and that the latter chieftain had been especially 
dire&ed to respect the British territories. 

Notwithstanding the solemn disavowal by Scindiah of these orders, the 
many instances of insincerity manifested by that chieftain, the general tenor of 
his conduct, and the authenticity of the source of information upon this sub¬ 
ject, together with circumstances which have subsequently been ascertained, 
confirm the intelligence originally received relative to these acts of aggression 
on the part of Scindiah. The facts were communicated to the Collector of 
Allahabad by the express direction of Himmut Behadur, (one of the Peish- 
wah’s officers in Bundelcund) to whom the letters of Scindiah w T ere addressed, 
and who previously transmitted proposals to the Governor General, for the 
transfer of that province to the authority of the British Government. 

In a letter from Colonel Collins, dated the 14 th of June, and received on 
the ( 3 th of July, that officer transmitted a paper of intelligence from his agent 
at Delhi, stating that messengers from Dowlut Rao Scindiah had lately come 
to the Rohilla chieftain Gholaum Mahomed Khan, who resides at Nadowm, 
and that letters had been received by that chieftain from General Perron, in¬ 
viting him to proceed with his followers towards the station of General Perron’s 
army, by the way of Saharunpore. for the purpose of exciting commotions in 
the Jagheer of Rampore ; and assuring him of ample support both from Scin¬ 
diah and General Perron ; and that General Perron had clandestinely addressed 
letters to the principal persons residing in the Jagheer of Rampore and other 
places, urging them to employ their exertions in disturbing the tranquillity of 
the Company’s possessions. This intelligence was corroborated by information 
repeatedly received and communicated to the Governor General by the Resi¬ 
dent at Lucknow, and the agent to the Governor General in the ceded pro¬ 
vinces of Oude, of the preparations of Gholaum Mahomed Khan, for the 
avowed purpose of complying with the suggestions which he had received 
from Scindiah and General Perron, to excite disturbances in the district of 
Rampoor, and to disturb the tranquillity of the Vizier’s and the Company’s 
dominions ; and on the 26th of July, copies of letters from Dowlut Rao 
Scindiah to Gholaum Mahomed Khan and Bumboo Khan (the grandson of 
the late Nujib-oo-Dowlah, who occupies a territory in the vicinity of Saha- 
runpoor) declaring the intention of Scindiah to commence a war of ag¬ 
gression against the British power, and instigating those chieftains to co-ope¬ 
rate with the forces of General Perron against the British possessions, were 

received 


MARHATTA EMPIRE. 


received by the Governor General from Mr. Leycester, the collector at Mora- ls< 
dabad, to whom they had been transmitted by Bumboo Khan. 

It appears from a passage in these documents, that the letters of Scindiah to 
Gholaum Mahomed Khan, and Bumboo Khan, were written subsequently to 
the march of Dowlut Rao Scindiah from Boorhanpore, on the 4 th of May. 

But the dispatch of messengers to Gholaum Mahomed Khan, and the trans¬ 
mission of the instructions to General Perron, under which that officer ad¬ 
dressed letters to the principal persons in Rampoor, and other places, as no¬ 
ticed in the preceding paragraphs, must' be referred to an earlier period of 
time. The complete state of preparation in which the army of General Per¬ 
ron was actually placed is a corroborative evidence of the actual transmission 
of orders to that officer, to the effect described in Colonel Collins’s letter of 
the Qth of March. 

These facts reciprocally confirm each point of the evidence of Scindiah’s 
hostile projects, and, combined with information at various times communi¬ 
cated by the Resident with Dowdut Rao Scindiah, of the proceedings of that 
chieftain, with the repeated intelligence received of the actual formation of an 
hostile confederacy between Dowlut Rao Scindiah, and the Rajah of Berar, 
and Jeswunt Rao Holkar, and with the tenor and result of the Resident’s 
negotiations, amount to full proof of the alledged design on the part of Scin¬ 
diah and the Rajah of Berar, of subverting the alliance formed between the 
British Government and his Highness the Peishwah. 

During the actual crisis of affairs, it appeared to the Governor General ne¬ 
cessary to unite the controul of all political affairs in the Dekan, connected 
with the negotiation then depending between the British Government and the 
confederated chieftains, and with the movement of the army, under a distinct 
local authority, subject to the Governor General in council, but possessing full 
powers to conclude upon the spot whatever arrangements might become ne¬ 
cessary, either for the final settlement of peace, or for the active prosecution 
of war. The Governor General was of opinion, that those important powers 
could not be placed with advantage in any other hands than those of the gene¬ 
ral officer commanding the troops, destined to restore the tranquillity of the 
Dekan; and accordingly determined on the 2Cth of June, to vest them in 
Major General Wellesley, whose established influence among the Marhatta 
chiefs, and intimate knowledge of the Governor General’s sentiments con¬ 
cerning the British interests in the Marhatta empire, were particularly calcu¬ 
lated to enable that officer to execute the arduous trust reposed in him, with 
the greatest benefit to the public interests. The same powers were also vested 
in Lieutenant General Stuart, in the event of his assuming the immediate 
command of the forces in the Dekan. 

On the 18 th of July, Major General Wellesley having received these powers July is, 
from the Governor General, addressed a letter to the Resident, directing him 
to state to Dowlut Rao Scindiah and the Rajah of Berar, the anxiety with 
which the British Government desired the preservation of peace ; and to 

D 2 observe. 


TRANSACTIONS IN THE 


observe, that the only proof which could be accepted of the sincerity of the 
amicable professions of Scindiah and the Rajah of Berar, was the immediate 
separation and return of their armies from the frontier of the Nizam’s territo¬ 
ries to their respective capitals ; in which case General Wellesley offered to 
withdraw the troops under his command to their usual stations. Should how¬ 
ever Scindiah and the Rajah of Berar be resolved to maintain their positions on 
the Nizam’s frontier, the Resident was directed to apprize those chieftains, 
that he had received Major General Wellesley’s orders to quit the camp of 
Scindiah, without delay. 

After further evasive attempts, the two chieftains returned answers on the 
31 st July to General Wellesley’s requisition, and proposed to retire from the po¬ 
sition which they occupied at the same time that General Wellesley should 
commence his march to the usual stations of the British army ; this proposition, 
however, w f as accompanied by a condition which furnished a curious example 
of the deceitful, but weak policy of these Marhatta chiefs ; they added to a 
proposition specious in its first appearance, the inadmissible and absurd condi¬ 
tion, that on the same day on which the British troops under General Wellesley 
should reach the stations of Bombay, Madras, and Seringapatam *, the Marhatta 
confederates would encamp the united armies of Scindiah and the Rajah of Be¬ 
rar at Boorhanporc, a city belonging to Scindiah, and situated about fifty miles 
from the Nizam’s frontier. 

The manner in which this proposition was conveyed to General Wellesley 
deserves particular notice. At the last conference, on the 31 st July, between 
the British Resident, Dowlut Rao Scindiah, and the Rajah of Berar, three 
successive propositions were offered by those chieftains to Colonel Collins’s ac¬ 
ceptance. The first proposition w'as, that the united forces of Scindiah and 
the Rajah of Berar should retire to Boorhanpore, and that Major General 
Wellesley should withdraw the British troops to their usual stations; or in 
other words, that the British army should abandon the means which it pos¬ 
sessed in its actual position, and in its embodied state, of opposing a seasonable 
resistance to any hostile attempts on the part of the confederated chieftains, 
while those chieftains should retire with their united armies to a short distance 
from the frontier of our ally, prepared to take advantage of the approaching 
favourable season, and of the absence and dispersion of the British forces. 

This unreasonable proposition having been decidedly and instantly rejected 
by the Resident, the confederated chieftains offered their second proposition, 
that the Resident should appoint a day for the march of the respective forces of 
those chieftains from the place of their encampment, and that the Resident 

•Distances from Amednuggur (the position of Major General Wellesley’s army on the list 
July 1803,) ' J 

To Madras, - 1049 miles 

Seringapatam - - - 541 - 

Bombay - 321 - 

From the position which the confederates occupied, Boorhanpore is distant about fifty miles. 

should 


MAR II ATT A EMPIRE. 


should pledge the faith of the British Government for the retreat of the army 
under Major General Wellesley, on the day on which the armies of the confe¬ 
derates should commence their march to their usual stations. 

It is manifest that this proposition afforded no other security for the ac¬ 
tual return of the armies of those chieftains to their usual stations, than a pre¬ 
carious dependence on those promises which they had so repeatedly violated. 
Independently of which consideration, Colonel Collins was not authorised to 
pledge the faith of the British Government to an arrangement inconsistent 
with the instructions which he had received from Major General Wellesley, 
and it soon became evident that this proposition was merely illusory on the 
part of the chieftains. 

Scindiah and the Rajah ofBerar finally proposed their third proposition, that 
they should by a letter state to Major General Wellesley, et that on the day on 
which General Wellesley should withdraw his troops from the station then 
occupied by the British army, those chieftains would separate their armies, and 
commence their return to their respective territories in Berar and the north of Hin- 
dostan This proposed modification of General Wellesley’s requisition evi¬ 
dently diminished the security which might have been derived from the pre¬ 
vious and immediate separation and departure of the confederated armies. 

Scindiah and the Rajah of Berar, however, having declared, that unless Major 
General Wellesley should consent to the third proposition, they could not re¬ 
tire consistently with a due regard to the honour of their respective govern¬ 
ments, Colonel Collins consented to refer that proposition to Major General 
Wellesley, and to remain in Scindiah’s camp until an answer should be re¬ 
ceived, provided the letters to Major General Wellesley were sent to the Re¬ 
sident for transmission, before the noon of the following day. 

It now appeared, that both the second and third propositions had been ab¬ 
solute evasions for the purpose of gaining time ; in direct violation of the terms 
of both the second and the third propositions, Scindiah and the Rajah ofBerar 
on the 1st August, 1803 , transmitted letters to the Resident, addressed to Ma- August t« 
jor General Wellesley, proposing (not to separate their armies, and to com¬ 
mence their return to Berar, and to the northern provinces of Hindostan, on 
the day on which Major General Wellesley should withdraw the British army ;) 
but to continue their armies united, and instead of commencing their “ march to 
their respective territories in Berar, and the north of Hindostan ,” to limit their 
retreat to the neighbouring station of Boorhanpore, precisely according to the 
terms of the first proposition, which had been fully discussed, and positively 
and instantly rejected by Colonel Collins. 

On receipt of the Rajah of Berar’s letters containing this inadmissible and p 3 Xre'o 7 c£ 
insidious proposition, the Resident made immediate arrangements for quitting neKonin^-om 
‘the camp of Dowlut Rao Scindiah, and commenced his march towards Aurun- c o^We*. ‘ 
gabad on the 3 d of August. 

It may he useful in this place to review in a distinct and connected form, the hte’Tranbj.c-* 

leading t,on#- 


22 


TRANSACTIONS in the 


On the 24th 
March. 


leading facts of the late transactions, which have terminated in a dissolution of 
the relations of amity between the British Government and the confederated 
chieftains, Dowlut Rao Scindiah and the Rajah of Berar. 

His Highness the Peish wah was compelled, towards the close of the year 
1802 , by the violence and usurpation of a subject * of his government, to aban¬ 
don his capital city of Poonah ; in pursuance of the principles of the alliance 
formed with the Peishwah in 1 7Q0, and revived in 17Q2 and 179**, and with a 
view to the establishment of the general system of defensive alliance, com¬ 
menced with the Nizam by the treaties of 1798 and 1800 , his Highness the 
Peishwah solicited and obtained the aid of the British power for the restoration* 
of his authority, and concluded engagements with the British Government, 
calculated to secure his Highness’s rights and independence, against the de¬ 
signs of any foreign or domestic enemy. Those engagements not only con¬ 
tained no stipulations injurious to the just rights of the feudatory chieftains 
of the Marhatta empire, but provided additional security for the unmolested 
exercise of those rights. Reference to the treaty of Bassein will prove this 
statement. 

Dowlut Rao Scindiah distinctly expressed his concurrence in the propriety 
of the measures adopted by the British Government for the restoration of the 
Peishwah’s authority ; he was assured by the Resident, in the name of the Bri¬ 
tish Government, that the treaty of Bassein was merely of a defensive nature ; 
and after haying received a copy of the treaty of Bassein, he admitted that the 
treaty of Bassein was not injurious to his own rights, or to those of the feudatory 
chieftains ; he also, after some discussion, admitted that the Peishwah pos¬ 
sessed the right to conclude the treaty of Bassein without the concurrence of the 
Marhatta feudatories, stating merely that as guarantee + to the treaty of Sal- 
bye, he ought to have been consulted by the Peishwah ; Dowlut Rao Scindiah, 
however, persisted in soliciting the junction of the Rajah of Berar, with the 
whole body of his forces, for the purpose of deciding the question of war or 
peace ; or, in other words, of eventually employing their united power and re¬ 
sources, to invade the territories of the allies and of the Company, and to subvert 


* Jeswunt Rao Holkar. 

t Oil this subject it may be observed, that to have rendered the Peishwah responsible to Scindiah 
for the acts of his administration as the acknowledged executive head of the Marhatta state, would 
have reversed the relation which subsists between them. The duty of a guarantee to a treaty can¬ 
not be considered to extend to the obligation of precluding any change in the terms of such treaty, 
or even its entire abrogation, provided the contracting parties have agreed by mutual consent to 
vary or annul it. In his capacity of guarantee to the treaty of Salbye, Scindiah is merely authorized 
to bring to a right understanding either of the parties to that treaty which shall deviate from its 
stipulations. In that capacity, therefore, Scindiah does not possess any authority to prevent the 
contracting parties from concluding any additional engagements, or even from abrogating the treaty 
of Salbye by mutual consent; at all events, his interests and station as a member of the Marhatta 
state, were sufficiently considered by the offer of admitting him to be a party in the defensive treaty 
concluded with the Peishwah, or of contracting separate engagements between him and the British 
Government on the basis of that treaty. 


m 


MARHATTA EMPIRE. 


2 3 


the arrangements concluded between the British Government and the Peishwah iws- 
at Bassein. 

In conformity to Dowlut Rao Scindiah’s solicitations, the Rajah of Berar 
commenced his march for the purpose of effecting the proposed junction of 
their numerous armies in a menacing position on the frontier * of the Nizam, 
the ally of the British Government. 

These measures were not adopted by those chieftains with a view, nor even 
under a pretence of defending their own rights and interests against any appre¬ 
hended design on the part of the British Government, or of any other state, to 
injure or to invade those rights or interests, nor with the view of securing 
the protection or internal settlement of their own possessions in the vicinity of 
the Nizam’s dominions. No such apprehensions were ever stated by cither 
chieftain. These measures were therefore avowedly concerted for the express 
purpose of enabling those chieftains to carry into effect their eventual reso¬ 
lution of undertaking a war of aggression against the British Government and 
its allies, for the purpose of usurping the authority of the Peishwah, and of de¬ 
stroying a treaty, the tendency of which the confederate chieftains had not ar¬ 
raigned, and which the Peishwah was acknowledged to be competent to con¬ 
clude, even by the direct admission of Dowlut Rao Scindiah. 

Under these and other indications of hostility on the part of those chieftains, 
the British Government merely required that they should retire with their ar¬ 
mies to their usual stations, in Berar and the north of Hindostan, proposing 
that the British army in the Dekan, should also retire in a similar manner. 

At the moment when Dowlut Rao Scindiah, after being apprized of all the 
stipulations of the treaty of Bassein, acknowledged, that it contained no pro¬ 
visions injurious to the rights of the feudatory chieftains, that chieftain publicly 
declared to the Resident, that the question of peace or war with the British May 1803 . 
Government depended upon the result of a conference between Scindiah and 
the Rajah of Berar, whose arrival at the head of the whole body of his forces in 
the vicinity of Scindiah’s camp, was daily expected. 

The hostile and insulting nature of this declaration deserves particular 
attention. Occupying a position with the main body of his forces near the 
frontier of our ally, Scindiah publicly declared, in open durbar, to the represen¬ 
tative of the British Government, that he awaited the arrival of the Rajah of 
Berar, at the head of a numerous army on the frontier of the dominions of our 
ally, for the purpose of deciding, whether the united arms of those confederate 
chieftains, should be employed in a war of aggression against the British Go¬ 
vernment and its allies. 

After the declaration made by Dowlat Rao Scindiah, that “ The British 
Government should, know whether it would he peace or war as soon as the Rajah 
of Berar should hcrve joined Scindiah's army," every principle of the law of 

* Near the Adjuntee Ghaut, a pass about sixty miles north of Aurungabad, on the Nizam's 
north western frontier, and leading into his territory. 

nations 


24 


1903 . 

v-^v-v^ 


On the 3d of 
June. 

On the 4th 
Jane, and at va 
ficus times af¬ 
terwards. 


TRANSACTIONS IN THE 

nations would have justified the British Government in adopting any measures 
which might have been deemed necessary to prevent the intended junction be¬ 
tween the armies of Dowlut Rao Scindiah and of the Rajah ofBerar. It would 
have been justifiable to have employed force for the purpose of preventing the 
junction of the confederate armies, and of diverting the operations of their 
troops. Those objects constituted a sufficient cause of war, previously to 
the meeting of the chiefs, and would have warranted the immediate attack of 
the territories and resources of the confederates in order to prevent the accom¬ 
plishment of the avowed purpose of their meeting. 

The armies of those chieftains however were permitted to effect the pro¬ 
posed junction, and the chieftains met for the purpose of deciding whether it 
should he peace or war with the Company. After the junction of their armies, 

" those chieftains continued by systematic delays and evasions, to withhold any 
declaration with regard to the nature of their designs, during a period of two 
months ; and although, at the expiration of that period of time, the confede¬ 
rated chieftains disavowed all intention of obstructing the complete execution 
of the treaty of Bassein, they refused to abandon the arrangements avowedly 
adopted, and the position occupied, for the eventual prosecution of hostilities 
against the British Government. 

The proceedings of the confederated chieftains were therefore manifestly of 
a menacing and aggressive nature, and the position of their united armies on 
the frontier of our ally, enabled them to carry into immediate execution the 
hostile designs which their conduct and their language had previously indicated. 
The temporary change of their language, unaccompanied by any change of 
conduct, afforded no security against the hostilities which they had menaced, 
and while they continued to occupy an hostile and menacing position with 
their united armies; the contradiction between their professions and their 
actions afforded just ground of suspicion, especially at that season when it would 
have been much more difficult for their forces than for the British to have 
commenced active operations. On the other hand, the movement of the 
British troops towards Ahmednuggur, as far as it respected the Rajah of Berar 
and Dowlut Rao Scindiah, was purely defensive. The internal condition 
of his Highness the Peishwah’s government would alone have justified, 
and required the march of the British subsidiary force from Poonah to that 
position. 

Under these circumstances, those chieftains were not entitled to any corre¬ 
sponding concessions on our part, and their refusal to comply unconditionally 
with the requisition of the British Government, would have justified an imme¬ 
diate resort to arms. The offer of Major General Wellesley, therefore, on the 
18 th of July, to withdraw the troops under his command, from the vicinity 
of Ahmednuggur, and the amicable assurances with which it was accompanied, 
afforded the most unequivocal proof of the pacific intentions of the British 
Government, and deprived the confederated chieftains of every pretext for 

continuing 


MARHATTA EMPIRE. 


continuing to maintain their armies in their united and menacing position on 
the frontier of our ally. 

The mere junction of the armies of Scindiah and the Rajah of Berar, upon 
the frontier of the dominions of our ally, for any purpbse unconnected with 
the security of the rights of those chieftains, would have compelled the British 
•Government to demand the removal of those armies from that menacing posi¬ 
tion, and would have required the adoption of measures of precaution on 
our part; and the refusal of those chieftains to comply with that demand, 
would have justified an appeal to arms for the security of our interests, 
and those of our allies. But Scindiah had publicly declared, that the object of 
the junction of the confederate armies was to decide the question of peace or 
war with the Company. Under the circumstances of the moment therefore, 
no other security for the pacific conduct of those chieftains could have been 
accepted, than such as should deprive them of the power of prosecuting with 
success the designs which they manifestly entertained, and had declared against 
the rights and interests of the British Government and its allies. 

During the whole course of the negotiation between the Resident and 
Dowlut Rao Scindiah, (from the 2/th of February until the 3 d of August, 
1803 ,) that chieftain and the Rajah of Berar employed their most assiduous 
endeavours to induce Jeswunt Rao Holkar to unite in the confederacy, and to 
form a junction with the confederate armies ; and those chieftains even 
assigned the depending negotiation with Jeswunt Rao Holkar, as a cause for 
maintaining their united armies in the position from which they were required 
to retreat. 

The result established by these facts, which are amply detailed in the Gover¬ 
nor General’s dispatches to the Secret Committee of the lQth April, 20th 
June, 1st August, and 25 th September 1803 , is— 

1 st. That according to the evidence of facts and to the distinct avowal of 
Scindiah and the Rajah of Berar, those chieftains had no cause of complaint 
against the British Government, nor any reason to apprehend that their just 
rights and interests were exposed to hazard by the arrangements concluded 
between the British Government and the Peishwah. 

2 dly. That the junction and continuance of the armies of those chieftains 
on the frontiers of the Nizam, near Adjuntee, were evidently unnecessary for 
any purpose connected with the security of their right's, or with the protection 
or internal arrangement of any part of their territorial possessions ; and that if 
either Scindiah or the Rajah of Berar had really entertained apprehensions of 
Holkar’s movements, they could not have continued in their actual posi¬ 
tion with common prudence, but must, for their own safety, have retired in the 
direction required by Major General Wellesley, since Holkar at that time 
occupied a position in the vicinity of Scindiah’s dominions in Malwa. 

3 dly. That the general conduct and language of those chieftains indicated 
designs of an hostile nature against the British Government and its allies, the 

E Peishwah 


TRANSACTIONS IN THE 


Peishwah and the Nizam, and that Scindiah had distinctly declared on the 
28 th of May, that he and the Rajah of Berar meditated eventual war. 

4thly. That those chieftains assembled their armies in a menacing position 
on the frontier of our ally the Nizam, for the purpose of enabling them even¬ 
tually to carry those designs into execution. 

5 t*hly. That the public and insulting menace of war, against the British 
Government, uttered by Dowlut Rao Scindiah on the 28 th of May 1803 , was 
an open avowal of an hostile spirit, and an act of direct hostility ; and there¬ 
fore a sufficient cause of war, unless that menace had been effectually retracted 
by such a movement of that chieftain’s army, as should have secured the British 
interests against the accomplishment of so insolent and wanton a threat; that 
the confederate army continued to retain the means of commencing with advan¬ 
tage the war which Scindiah had denounced; that the same hostile spirit 
was manifested by various preparations and arrangements dangerous to the 
British Government and its allies, and that these acts of aggression were me¬ 
naced and committed, not only without any cause of complaint deducible 
from the measures and proceedings of the British Government or of its 
allies, but under a distinct acknowledgment of the pacific nature of our 
arrangements with the Peishwah, and under an avowed conviction of our ami¬ 
cable intentions. 

6thly. That the hostile nature of the proceedings of those chieftains, and 
their repeated violation of public faith, precluded all reliance on their promises 
and professions, and rendered it the duty of the British Government to require 
the separation and return of their armies to their respective territories, as the 
only security for the rights and interests of the British Government and its 
allies, against the declared designs of those confederated chieftains. 

7thly. That this requisition was accompanied by a proposal to withdraw the 
British army from its advanced position at Ahmednuggur in the Dekan, and 
that such a proposal was not only an incontrovertible proof of the just and 
pacific views of the British Government, but furnished ample security to the 
confederated chieftains, against the possibility of any danger which could be 
apprehended by them, from a compliance with our requisition to separate and 
withdraw their armies. 

It was evident therefore, that after the denial of this just requisition, the 
defence and security of our rights, and those of our allies, could only be main¬ 
tained by resorting to arms against Scindiah and the Rajah of Berar. 

The season pressed for decision. The actual prevalence of the rainy monsoon 
in the provinces of India, which must become the theatre of war, was highly 
favourable to our operations, and equally unpropitious to any hostile movement 
of the native powers. 

To have permitted the confederate chieftains to remain unmolested until 
the close of the rains, would have sacrificed a principal advantage which we 
then possessed, and would have enabled and encouraged them to prosecute with 


MAR II ATT A EM PIKE. 


facility and rapidity their operations* against the territories of the Nizam, of 
the Peishwah, of the Rajah of Mysore, and eventually of the Company, at the 
commencement of the favourable season. 

This policy would have united all the disadvantages of irresolution with ihe 
inconvenience of heavy expense, and of the continuance of our army at a remote 
distance from our own possessions; neither prudence nor honour would have 
permitted us to retreat under the menacing language and commanding position 
ot the confederate chieftains. We must therefore have maintained an advanced 
position in the Dekan, nor could we have abandoned the Nizam, the Peishwah, 
the Guikwar, the Rajah of Mysore, and our own subjects upon our frontier, to 
the security of vague professions from a Marhatta Durbar. The threats and 
power of the confederates, the position and force of their army, combined with 
the general tenor of their conduct and policy, absolutely required that our army 
should remain in the vicinity of the confederate forces, for the preservation of 
our interests, of our safety, of our public faith, and of our reputation. 

In addition to other circumstances, the declining state of the Nizam’s health, 
and the designs which the confederate chieftains were known to entertain with 
respect to the succession to the sovereign authority of the Dekan, rendered it 
indispensibly necessary that while the Marhatta army remained on the Nizam’s 
frontier, the British troops should occupy a position calculated to secure the 
regular order of succession on the Nizam’s death, and to frustrate the attempts 
which the confederates might make to place on the musnud of the Dekan, 
one of the younger sons of the Nizam, devoted to the cause of the Marhatta 
chiefs, and inimical to the British interests. 

The same policy which dictated the conclusion of the treaties of Hyderabad 
in 1798 and in 1800, required that the British Government should be pre¬ 
pared to maintain the stability of its alliance with the Prince of the De*kan, and 
to resist any attempt which might be directed to the subversion of the British 
influence at Hyderabad, or to the exclusion of the legitimate heir from the 
sovereign power of the Dekan. 

These considerations therefore rendered it indispensibly necessary to maintain 
an advanced position in the Dekan, while the confederates should persist in the 
determination of menacing the frontier of our allies. If the British army had 
continued in an advanced position, leaving to the confederates the undisturbed 

• The Dessarah, which may be considered a military festival among the Marhattas, takes place at 
the close of the south-west monsoon, about the end of the month of September; the favourable 
season far the movement of troops then opens. The jhanda or great standard of the prince is 
hoisted, a camp is formed, and the operations of the ensuing year are determined, whether they may 
be directed against an open enemy, or to the object of collecting the permanent tribute, or Choute, 
or to move on a Muluk-Gheree, or plundering expedition. “ In Poonah, this festival'is celebrated 
with particular splendor. The Peishwah, accompanied by the great members of the empire, march 
out of the city, preceded by the state equipages, consisting of elephants superbly caparisoned, led 
horses, and in short all the pomp of oriental magnificence. Upon this occasion the Marhattas go 
through the ceremony of plundering a field; doubtless to remind them of their predatory origin. 
The Peishwah leads the way, by tearing up a handful of corn; his example is followed by all present, 
and the field is pillaged in a moment.” 

E 2 possession 


TRANSACTIONS IN THE 


possession of their resources and means of attack, the result must have been 
deeply injurious, if not fatal to our cause. 

After vve had sustained the expense and inconvenience of remaining inactive 
in the field, waiting the pleasure of the Marhatta Durbars for peace or war, the 
confederate chieftains would ultimately have possessed the opportunity of em¬ 
ploying their combined force against our dispirited army with every advantage 
of season, with increased alacrity and vigour, and with the probable addition of 
HolkarV troops, of many of our present Marhatta, and even of French 
auxiliaries. 

The same considerations of justice and policy, therefore, w'hich absolutely re¬ 
quired us to maintain our army in an advanced position, under the actual 
aggression and hostile conduct of the confederates, operated with additional 
force to demand such a seasonable application of our military strength, as should 
afford us the full benefit of our actual advantages, frustrate the artifices, delays, 
and treachery of the enemy, anticipate his insulting menace of war, check his 
pride, and chastise his insolence. 

If vve had submitted to the insidious propositions of the Marhatta chiefs, if 
we had retreated in the face of their united forces,, and had withdrawn our 
army in the Dekan*, while they retained their commanding position; if we 
had omitted the precautions which involved additional expense on the frontier 
of Oude, and in other quarters; we should have submitted the honour, dignity, 
and interests, if not the existence, of the British Government in India, to the 
most faithless, sanguinary, rapacious, and violent of the Marhatta adventurers; 
we should have forfeited the opinion of the native powers, which forms a main 
pillar of the fabric of our empire; we should have descended to a public ac¬ 
knowledgment of the superiority of the Marhatta arms in the face of all Asia; 
and we should have been degraded by the native states of Hindostan, and the 
Dekan, to the rank of a secondary power in India; of a power secondary to 
Dowlut Rao Scindiah, whose military strength: rests upon the support of French- 
adventure, enterprize, and skill. 

A policy so unworthy of British wisdom, honour, and. courage would have 
subjected the tranquillity and security of Hindostan and the Dekari, including 
all our alliances, dependencies, and possessions, to the will of Scindiah, and of 
a band of French adventurers, armed with a powerful artillery, in the critical 
moment of a renewal of war with France. 

It appeared to the Governor General to be a more safe, as well as a more 
honourable policy, to employ the means which he had prepared, for the pur¬ 
pose of effectually averting the present and future projects of the confederates 
and their French officers, than to confide the security ofnny part of his arduous 
trust to the professions of the Marhatta chiefs, contradicted by the spirit of 

* Dekan or South, in its general signification, implies the whole of the peninsula of India to the 
southward of the Nerbudda river, or from the 22d degree of north latitude to Cape Comorin. In 
its limited sense it is intended to signify the countries new forming the provinces of Candeish, Dow- 
lutabad, Viziapoor, Golconda, and part of Berar. 


all 


MAR II ATT A EMPIRE. 


20 


all their actions, and by the uniform tenor of their character, disposition and isos, 
views. v 

Colonel Collins therefore left Scindiah’s camp on the 3 d of August, and the 
British government proceeded to carry into execution the plan of operations 
which had been formed for the eventual defeat of the unjust and. unprovoked 
designs of the confederated chieftains, Dovvlut Rao Scindiah and the Rajah of 
Berar. 

The compass of these notes will not admit a statement of the detailed in- Plan of the 
structions issued by the Governor General to his Excellency the Commander ga^st^Uie con- 
in Chief (General Lake,) and to the honourable Major General Wellesley, to federate *- 
the governments of Fort St. George and Bombay, and to the public officers at 
Fort William, relative to the preparation and employment of the forces, and to 
several points connected with the formation of a system of political arrange¬ 
ment with the neighbouring states and chieftains, calculated to diminish the 
power and resources of the enemy, and to facilitate the success of the British 
arms, in the event of our being compelled to proceed to hostilities. 

Every measure was suggested and adopted, which the judgment of the Go¬ 
vernor General in council could deyise, for the successful accomplishment of 
those political arrangements, and the preparations for military operations were 
all made with a view to the commencement of hostilities in every quarter of 
the possessions of the enemy, before the close of the rainy season. Although 
this early movement was likely to prove difficult to the British armies, it is well 
known that these difficulties w r ould be inconsiderable in comparison with the 
almost insurmountable obstacles which embarrass the operations of the army of 
a native power, during the period of the rains. The forces from the armies of 
Fort St. George and of Bombay, under the command of Major General Wel¬ 
lesley, were already in a position to commence hostilities in the Dekan, as 
soon as intelligence should be received of the rupture of the negotiation with 
Scindiah and the Rajah of Berar; and arrangements had been carried into 
effect, for the early invasion (from Ganjam and from Calcutta by the armies of 
Fort St. George and Bengal,^ of the valuable province of Cuttack in Orissa, 
which disjoins the British territory, and interrupts the continuity of our do¬ 
minions between Bengal and the northern Sircars. The government of Bom¬ 
bay was prepared to seize at the same time, in the sea ports and territory be¬ 
longing to Scindiah in Guzerat, on the extremity' of the western quarter of 
India. By the indefatigable activity, zeal, ability, and energy of General Lake, 

(whose personal exertions have surpassed all former example, and have been the 
main source of the success of the war in that .quarter,) the army of Bengal on 
the north-west frontier of Oude, was placed, towards the close of the month of 
July, in a state of preparation and equipment, favourable to the immediate 
attack of Monsieur Perron’s force, as soon as authentic advices should be re¬ 
ceived of the commencement of hostilities in the Dekan. 

The arrangements adopted by the Governor General during this arduous 
crisis of affairs, were directed to provide for a general combined attack to be 

made,. 


TRANSACTIONS IN TIIE 


made, nearly at the same time, on the united army of Scindiah and the Rajah 
of Berar under their personal, command in the Dekan, and .on all their most 
vulnerable and valuable possessions in every quarter of India. The plan of 
operations comprehended a tract of country, extending from Delhi* and the 
Presidencies of Fort William, Fort St. George, and Bombay to Poonah, Hyder¬ 
abad, Guzerat, and Orissa, and embraced, together with the security and de¬ 
fence of the British dominions, the importantvabjects of defeating the confede¬ 
rate chieftains in the field ; of establishing our allies, their highnesses the 
Peishwah and the'Nizam, in their respective legitimate governments ; of secur¬ 
ing the legitimate succession to the government of the Dekan ; of delivering 
the unfortunate and aged Emperor Shah Allum, and the royal house of Timur, 
from misery, degradation, and bondage ; and of extirpating the last remnant 
of French influence in India, by rescuing his Imperial Majesty the Moghul, 
from the hands of a desperate band of French adventurers ; and by destroying 
the powerful artillery and military resources of Monsieur Perron, and of the 
French state founded upon the ruins of the authority of the Moghul, and under 
the auspices of Scindiah, on the north-west frontier of Hindostan. 

The army under Major General Wellesley was directed to the purpose of 
opposing the confederated force under the command of Scindiah and the Rajah 
of Berar. The effect of Major General Wellesley’s success might be expected 
to deliver from all danger the Nizam, the Peishwah, and the Company’s pos¬ 
sessions in Mysore, in the western and southern districts of the Dekan, and on 
the frontier of Berar; and to establish the governments of the Guikwar, of 
Poonah, and of Hyderabad. 

By the reduction of Cuttack in Orissa, an effectual blow would be struck 
against the Rajah of Berar’s resources, the only maritime territory of the Mar- 
hattas, on the eastern side of the peninsula of India, would be secured from all 
intercourse with the French, a valuable addition would be made to our re¬ 
venue, and a strong barrier added to the frontier of Bengal against predatory 
incursion ; the intercourse between Bengal and the territories of Fort St. George 
would also be protected from interruption. The seizure of Scindiah’s ports in 
Guzerat would leave no possession on the sea coast of the western side of the 
peninsula to the Marhattas, excepting that occupied by our allies the Peishwah 
and the Guikwar, and the confined territories of Angria, and other piratical 
states, through which the communication with Scindiah’s territories is nearly 
impracticable. 

The operations on the north-west frontier of Oude, under the immediate 


* Delhi to Poonah, - - 

013 Miles. 

Hyderabad, 

950 

Baroach, about - 

800 

Cuttack, 

902 

Fort William to Poonah, 

1289 

Hyderabad, 

902 

Baroach, - 

1251 


Fort William to Bombay, - - - 1301 

Fort St. George, - 1030 

Fort St. George to Poonah, - 660 

Hyderabad, - 352 

Boorhanpoor, - - 769 

Fort St. George to Bombay, - - 758 

Baroach to Cuttack, - - near 1000 

direction 


MARHATTA EMPIRE. 


31 


direction of General Lake, embraced a most important branch of the war ; isos, 
namely,—First, The destruction of the power of the French adventurers, esta- 
blished on the banks of the Jumna under Monsieur Perron. Secondly, The ex¬ 
tension of the British frontier to the Jumna, with the possession of Agra, Delhi, 
and a sufficient chain of posts on the right bank of the Jumna, for the protection 
of the navigation of that river. Thirdly, The protection of the person of the Em¬ 
peror Shah Allum. Fourthly, The establishment of an efficient system of alliance 
with the petty states, beyond the right bank of the Jumna from Jcynagur to 
the province of Bundelcund.* Fifthly, The annexation of Bundelcund to the 
Company’s dominions, by which annexation great additional security would 
be derived to the rich province and city of Benares, and an effectual check op¬ 
posed to whatever power might remain to the Rajah of Berar, or to any other 
Marhatta chief in that quarter. 

The result of this plan of operations on the north-west frontier of Oude, 
would destroy the influence of the French, and of the Marhattas, in the northern 
districts of Hindostan, and would enable the British Government to commence 
the foundation of such an intercourse with the Seiks, and the tribes inhabiting 
the Punjab, and the banks of the river Attock, as might furnish sufficient means 
of frustrating any attempt of an invading enemy from the western side of the 
Indus. 

In addition to these advantages, it was highly important to protect the per¬ 
son and nominal authority of the Moghul against the designs of France. The 
person and authority of that unhappy monarch were treated by the Marhattas 
and by the French with the most barbarous indignity and violence, and it ap¬ 
peared honourable to the reputation of the British name to afford a secure, 
respectable, and tranquil asylum to the fallen dignity and declining age of the 
Emperor of Hindostan. It was also necessary to extend the protection of the 
British Government to his Majesty’s heir apparent, and to any of the royal 
family who might otherwise fall into the hands of French adventurers, and, 
under the direction of French agents, might become a powerful aid to the 
cause of France in India. 

By the most accurate accounts which have been received on the subject of Qf ^ 
the forces of the enemy, it appears, that towards the close of the month of forces of the 
July, the troops opposed to Major-General Wellesley, under the immediate the^seTf^the 
command of Scindiah and of the Rajah of Berar in the field, amounted 
about 38,500 cavalry, 10,500 regular infantry, 500 matchlock men, 5 00 the Adjure 
rocket men, and lyO pieces of ordnance. Two brigades under Monsieur Du- 3 8,5oo cavalry, 
dernaigue and Major Brownrigg, amounting to twelve battalions, with a large 
train of artillery, had been ordered to Hindostan, and Monsieur Polhman’s 
brigade had been directed to return to Boorhanpoor, leaving with Scindiah 
only eight battalions,j' consisting ot about 4500 men; the Rajah of Berar’s 50000i 

* The province is situated to the S. W. of the Jumna river, about the 24th and 25th degrees of 
nonthlatitude. 

t Four battalions under Monsieur Dupont, and four belonging to Begum Sumroo. 

infantry 


lockmen, 
500 rocket- 


33 TRANSACTIONS IN' THE 

t J infantry amounted to f)000 men. These forces were posted at Julgong, a place 
at the foot of the Adjuntee Ghaut, in the Dekan ; in addition to the troops 
already stated, Scindiah had an advanced party.of a few thousand horse dis¬ 
persed through the Adjuntee hills. 

Amount of the The force under the immediate command of Monsieur Perron, Scindiah’s 
Monsieur e per- general in the northern provinces of Hindostan, amounted to about 16 or 
tan in Fromi6 1 7.000 regular and disciplined infantry, and a well-appointed and numerous 
to 17,000 in- train of artillery ; together with a body of irregular troops, and from 1 5 to 
is’t^ao'oooc™ 20,000 horse, which it was also expected would be encreased by reinforce- 
valry- ments of cavalry from the country of the Seiks, and from the Rajahs and 
petty chiefs on the right bank of the Jumna river, who were tributary to, or 
in alliance with, Monsieur Perron. 

The head quarters of Monsieur Perron’s force were established near Coel, 
in a commanding situation, on the frontier of our possessions, and on the most 
vulnerable point of our extensive empire. 

The local situation of Scindiah’s territories, and the nature of his military 
force in Hindostan, would always have constituted a serious danger to the 
British interests. Part of those" territories was situated between the Jumna 
and the Ganges ; they interrupted our line of defence in that quarter, and 
some of Scindiah’s principal posts were introduced into the centre of our 
dominions, while the possession of Agra, Delhi, and of the right bank of the 
Jumna, enabled that chieftain to command nearly the whole line of our 
north-western frontier. 

Formidable as the power of Scindiah might have proved in the event of 
any accession to his strength by a connection with France, or with any enemy 
to the British interest, a danger more urgent had grown out of the decline of 
Scindiah’s local authority in Hindostan, in the establishment of a regular corps 
of infantry, under the command of European officers, supported by funds 
derivable almost exclusively from the territorial possessions of Scindiah, situ¬ 
ated between the Jumna, Ganges, and the mountains of Cumaon. 

A considerable portion of this territory was assigned to Monsieur Perron, 
who had formed it into an independent state, of which Scindiah’s regular 
infantry might justly be termed the national army. The inhabitants of this 
territory considered Monsieur Perron as their immediate sovereign, while the 
troops, supported from the revenues of the country, regarded Monsieur Perron 
as the immediate executive authority, from which the army was to receive 
orders, subsistence, and pay. 

Possessed of such means, Monsieur Perron dictated with the authority of a 
sovereign state of superior rank, and with the vigour of efficient military 
power, to the petty states occupying the countries on the right bank of the 
Jumna, and by the terror of his name and arms, held in abject submission 
the Rajepoot states of Jeynagur and Joudpore, together with the Jauts, and 
the state of Gohud, extending his influence even to Buldencund, and to the 
country occupied by the Seiks. 


Under 


MARHA.TTA EMPIRE. 


33 


Under the influence of a succession of French adventurers, the British 
Government must have been exposed to every intrigue of the French in India, 
and even to the ambition and hostile spirit of the person who now rules the 
French nation , nor could an instrument of destruction more skilfujly adapted 
to wound the heart of the British empire in India, have been presented to the 
vindictive hand of the Chief Consul of France. 

This French state actually held possession of the person and nominal autho¬ 
rity of the Moghul, maintained the most efficient army of regular infantry, 
and the most powerful artillery then existing in India (with the exception of 
his Majesty’s and the Company’s troops), and exercised a considerable influence 
over the neighbouring states, from the banks of the Indus to the confluence 
of the Jumna and the Ganges. Under any circumstances of an intimate con¬ 
nection between Scindiah and the British Government, even in the event of 
that chieftain’s accession to the treaty of Bassein, and to the general defensive 
alliance with the Company, the Nizam, and the Peishwah, it is impossible to 
suppose that this French state would have co-operated with cordiality in sup¬ 
port of the British interests. - 

In the event of an attack from France upon the British dominions in India, 
it could not be expected that a French state, erected under the nominal and 
ostensible auspices of. Scindiah in Hindostan, would have afforded any sub¬ 
stantial aid to the ally of the British power, in a contest against France, even 
if that ally should have been disposed to have assisted uS in such a crisis. 

On the other hand, no doubt existed that Scindiah would always receive 
the most zealous aid from the same state in any attempt which he might make, 
either for the reduction of the British, or for the aggrandizement of the 
French power in India. 

The safety of the British dominions in India, either with reference to a 
contest with Scindiah, to a renewal of war with France, or to both these con¬ 
tingencies, required therefore the reduction of Monsieur Perron’s power, and 
it became the duty of the British Government to be prepared to assume the 
protection of its own territories, and to remove with its own hand the proxi- ' 
mate cause of insecurity and alarm. 

The existence of Monsieur Perron’s power was not, however, the cause of 
the present war in India ; although, in the event of a continuance of the war 
with France, it might have proved highly dangerous to the British interests, 
and must have occasioned discussions with Scindiah. The causes of the war 
with Scindiah were confined to the military movements, and to the hostile 
language and conduct of that chief and of his allies. The destruction of 
Monsieur Perron’s force necessarily became a primary object of the war; com¬ 
menced on distinct grounds of complaint against Scindiah. 

The forces assembled in different quarters of India, lor the purpose of car- General state¬ 
ly ing into effect the Governor General’s comprehensive plan of operations tkh forces^- 1 * 
against the confederate Marhatta chieftains, amounted to about 54 , 918 men, ££ 
exclusive of pioneers, gun iascars, and persons attached to the store and ord- ofIndia * 
nance departments. 

F. The 



34 


TRANSACTIONS IN THE 


18 03 - , The army under the personal command of General Lake consisted of three 
North west regiments of European, and five regiments of native cavalry, about two 
Oude' er ° f hundred European artillery, one regiment of European, and eleven battalions 
of native infantry, amounting altogether to about 10,500 men. The dispo- 
vide Plan sition of this force towards the commencement of the month of August, 1803, 

N0,1, is exhibited in the order of battle which is annexed to these notes. It is 

necessary, how r ever, to observe, that of this force, his Majesty’s 8th regiment 
of dragoons, the Oth regiment of native cavalry, and the 2d brigade of native 
infantry, had not yet joined the army. The 2d brigade and Oth regiment of 
native cavalry were at Anopsheer, and the 8th regiment of dragoons had only 
at this period received its horses from the Nawaub Vizier, and was not yet 
prepared to move from Cawnpore. 

Allahabad and In addition to this force, about 3500 men were assembled near Allahabad, 
Mirzapoor. f* or the purpose of invading the province of Bundelcund; and about 2000 
men were collected at Mirzapoor, to cover the province and city of Benares, 
as well as to guard the passes in that quarter. Measures* were also adopted 
for the defence of the whole fine of the frontier, from Mirzapoor to Mid- 
napoor. 

The troops under the immediate command of Major General Wellesley, on 
intheDekan. the Dekan, amounted to 1 0,823 men; exclusive of which, a force was left at 
Poonah, consisting of a detachment of his Majesty’s 84th regiment, and 1035 
Sepoys, w'hich were deemed fully sufficient, in conjunction with such troops 
as the Peishwah himself had at Poonah, to afford complete protection to his 
Highness; and to jepel.any attack which might be made upon that city. 

Cuttack. The force assembled for the invasion of the province of Cuttack amounted 

to 5210 men. 

in the Doab of It has already been stated, that the main body of the army of Fort St. 
Toombu'Srri. George had been assembled at Hurryhur, on the north western frontier of 
ver. at Mood- Mysore, under the personal command of Lieutenant General Stuart. A part 
of this army had heen detached to Poonah, under the command of Major 
General Wellesley, in the month of March 1803. Political considerations 
of importance, combined with advantages in a military point of view, had 
induced General Stuart, at the suggestion of Major General Wellesley, to 
move with the remainder, towards the end of the month of May, to MoodguL, 
a town situated in the Doab of the Kistna and Toombudra rivers, about 
fourteen marches from Hyderabad. This position was admirably well calcu¬ 
lated to afford protection to the Nizam’s dominions, to overaw T e the southern 
Marhatta Jagheerdars, and to cover the Company’s territories, by enabling 
General Stuart to interrupt, with more facility, the march of any body of 

* It has appeared unnecessary to state in "this place the detail of these measures, as it would be 
difficult to exhibit in a short compass, the number and disposition of the troops employed on this 
service. It will be sufficient to observe, that every arrangement was adopted which could ensure 
the complete attainment of the important objects proposed to be derived from a comprehensive and 
efficient system of defence. 

troops. 


\ 



ifBatt". S^NI. 1 "BattVu+BI. Halt n c,' h .V t. V^fampi6*NI. 

i !, Batt'J‘ i A T r. ij Balt n ,%' h VI. z Halt" z*ST. 

SSSSS* 'fezassJft' 

^l'|- \ 1 1 HT#l|i i| Ifffc , 

Major Bassett. If Co l Palmer Lf Col Aske If Col f White 

Megor Keryan LfCol fM c . Bid lode If Col Blair 

A Brigade Colonel 

4 4 1 Brigade If Col Towed 

Major of Brigade 

Major of Brigade Cap f Cumber ledge 

Jet? QrtJToOWyadc 

Act ? <F3Cof Brigade Mister 


\\w\ CSBalt i; y u ‘ y 7. 2 <! Hail* ij*.V 7 n 4BatTh2*fyi. 



j * Brigade Col MV Donald 
Major or Brigade Cap 1 Cristie 
.Ait? QCMTBrigade Capf Wallis 


1/ Col? Hondord 
Adjf IS Butiar 
O’ SC: JS. Brown 


24Bait*4*m. i+Compijia. JLM-jG^Rcgf r c, Batt n 



Alajor £d*vards Cap fBogshaw Major Iff Lead IS. Col Brown 


jf c Brigade LfCol Mouson 
Major of Brigade Lf Jiilso 
del ? Qf 3/T of Brigade (etpfBerry 4 4* N l. 


Engineer Pioneer Corps 



Jlonble Major GenfS?John. 
Major ofBrigade Coaunt 
IJU amp LfWilson. 


Cap f Wood 
Assistants 
Zf Sh’ in ton 
JSFcrster 


V_ 

Bight 


Major Cm f Ware 


Wing 



Major of Brigade Cap? Scott 

AD. Camp CzpfBristeirkc l’crsianInterpreter Capf MV Grey cr 


Sttuf to IBs Krerlle/uy if aural L akt 

At?Adj! 6oifJungs Troops Major Nidiolson 

At!Q r MS6m L Kings Troops Capf'hakc 

Military Secretary Cap 0 . 1 1 alec 

Adf f Gen Camp Troops Lf CoVfGa'ard 

Deputy’ QCWV CrmSComK Troops Major Campbell 

Ttrsian Interpreter If Col*. 1 Gerard 

CammiGary of Crt'cun Razor Pc Pc Cap ? Mon son 

Agent for drain, and Camels lapCampbell 

Bay MVMTJZdnunjtvn 

AGutant Surgeon MffLaicv 

Mead Surgeon to the Army J/T Cochrane. 

A.l). Camps Cap 1 ?'Lain,Major Xidudson.Cap 01 if orison., 

IfDrival ?j Dragoons. 


j *Brigade Col Macon 
MB I fMacon y A Dnupf 

Act? (JVMVI VShubridc 


III 



HM -ig 4 Drag f 
lion IS Col Carlron 


4^. Cavalry 
L f Col MV Greet or 



Reserve. 

Col 1 S t Leger AD Camp If Gore 
j J fBrigade Golf Vandelcur 

MB 

Act ? QWBrigade 


j 4Teg HU. Gavahy 
Major Middleton 




UM.S^Drag/ 
If Col VanJtleur 


l.y. Cavalry 
If Ced. Gordon 



G^y Cavalrv 
Ma jor Me un cry 


ifBrigade Co I fSA eqer 
MB. Rose 

Ad f QVMCI f Johruton 2 4 N. Cavalry 


I 





f|l | 

1 


1 

III 



III 


MM. 2 ; DragC 

Major ye A 


i4Regy. Cavalry 
If Col Broun 


To couuitatld tht Arti/leiy of 
the Bight Wing lap * Robertson 
To command the Artillerv of 
the Let} Wing Cap! Greene 





Published by AS tv did At Buradilh’. 


























































































■ 








. 




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> ■ I \ A 

















"MARIJATTA EMPIRE. 


tion 
force at' 


troops that might attempt to penetrate into them. The forced at Moodgul J803 - 
amounted to three companies of European artillery, one regiment of Eu- 
ropean, and two regiments of native cavalry, three corps of European 
infantry, and five battalions of sepoys, with a large train of artillery, and a 
proportion of gun lascars and pioneers, amounting to 782(5 fighting men. 

The Dewan, and Minister of Mysore, with a considerable force, encamped 
on the frontier of Mysore, in the rear of General Stuart, and by his position 
afforded additional protection to that country. In conformity to instruction? 
for that purpose from the Governor General, Lieutenant General Stuart de¬ 
tached, on the 2Qth of March, to Hyderabad, two battalions of sepoys under 
the command of Major Irton, for the purpose of securing tranquillity in that 
capital, in the event of the demise of the Nizam, which at that period of time 
was rendered extremely probable, from the declining state of his Highness’s 
health. 

Circumstances connected with the arrival of a French armament in India, Alteration in 
and the probability of a renewal of the war with France, rendered an altera- atddhpSiti 
tion in the strength and disposition of the force at Moodgul adviseable, and Mood^i 
induced Lieutenant General Stuart to return to the presidency of Fort St. August 
George. 

The 73d regiment, and a battalion of sepoys, were in consequence directed, 
about the beginning of the month of August, to proceed to the Carnatic; and 
the remainder of the army, with the exception of two battalions of sepoys, 
which, at different periods in the month of July, were detached for the pur¬ 
pose of joining the troops under the command of Major General Wellesley, 
with considerable supplies of treasure, bullocks and grain, was left at Mood¬ 
gul, under the orders of Major General Campbell; who was directed by 
Lieutenant General Stuart, to detach the force under his command (or a part 
of it,) to join the troops in advance, or to Hyderabad, on deceiving a requi¬ 
sition to that effect from Major General Wellesley, or from Major Kirkpa¬ 
trick, the Resident at the court of the Nizam. 

The Corps de reserve‘j* under Major General Campbell consisted of one corps de re¬ 
serve at Mood* 

* The force under Lieutenant General Stuart at Moodgul: 

European cavalry - - -~ 

Native ditto - - - - — 

European Infantry 

Five companies of the 33d regiment, the 73d regiment, and 
seven companies of the 80th regiment, 

European artillery - - - 

Native infantry - - - - . 


431 

846 


gul in the 
month of Au¬ 
gust. 


535 Artillery lascars, and 620 Madras pioneers. 

f Corps de reserve at Moodgul. 


Cavalry.—25th dragoons, 1st and 2d regiments native! 

cavalry - - - J 

Infantry.—Five companies of the 33d,. and seven com- ) 
panies of the 80th regiment, - ) 

With a proportion of artillery and pioneers. 


European. 
431 
820 


1529 

251 

4769 

782 6 

Native. 

846 

ms 


About 


Total. 
I2 77 
27 55 

4032 


30 


TRANSACTIONS IN THE 


isos. > regiment of European, and two regiments of native cavalry, a proportion of 
L ' , ~' European artillerymen, two corps of European and two battalions of native 
infantry, with a party of pioneers, amounting to about i 277 cavalry, 820 
European, and 1Q35 native infantry, exclusive of artillery and pioneers. 

In addition to the troops under the command of Major GeneraTWellesley, 
and those stationed at Hyderabad, Poonah, and Moodgul, there was a force* 
Guzerat. i n Guzerat, and in the town and dependencies'of Surat, amounting to 2913 
Europeans, and 4100 natives, in all 7352 men. With a view to afford 
ample security to the valuable and important province of Guzerat, and at the 
same time to have a disposeable force, that might eventually be employed in 
active operations against the enemy, Major General Wellesley (after providing 
garrisons for Surat, Brodera, Cambay, Kareah, Songhur, Purneerah, and 
eventually for Baroach,) divided the remainder of the force in Guzerat, 
amounting’to 4281 f men, into two detachments; of which one, amounting 
to 2137J men, was stationed in front of Brodera, (the residence of the Guik- 
war,^) to the northward of the Nerbudda river. The other detachment§, 
consisting of 2094 men, was directed to occupy a position south of the 
Taptee river, between Songhur and Surat. Two six-pounders were attached 
to each corps, and each of the detachments was ordered to be completed with 

* Force in Guzerat. 


Artillery, - European 

- 188 Native 

339 

Infantry.—His Majesty’s 61st regiment 

154 ' 

65 th 

763 


, 75 th 

573 


84 th 

272 


85 th 

*15 


88th 

148 


Native Infantry - - — - 

" • 2 

4100 


2913 

4439 

f Abstract. 


7352 

Artillery, - - European 

99 


Infantry.—His Majesty’s 65th regiment 

- 763 


85 th 

- 815 


Native Infantry — - - 


2604 

« 

■ ■■■ —■ 

— 


1677 

2604 


E 

1677 



Total, 


4281 

% Artillery - 

50 

His Majesty’s 86th regiment 

815 


Two battalions of sepoys >- 

1322 



—-— 

2187 

$ Artillery 

49 

His Majesty’s 65th regiment 

763 

1282 


Two battalions of sepoys 


' ; 1 , - 

— 

2094 


two 


MARHATTA EMPIRE. 


37 


two twelve-pounders, and two five-and-half-incE howitzers. The whole of isos, 
the force in Guzerat was, at the recommendation of Major General Wei- ' v ' 
lesley, placed under the orders of Colonel Murray, of his Majesty’s 84th 
regiment. 

From these details it appears, that the total number of British troops, Ahstrac!: state- 
including garrisons in Guzerat and at-Surat, (3071 men,) prepared, at the BrWsUfoi-ces. . 
commencement of the month of August, to support the arrangements con- Ausust ‘ 
eluded with the Peishwah, amounted to 54,918* men. Of this number, 
about 10,500 were assembled in the provinces lately ceded by the Nawaub 
Vizier to the Company, under the personal command of the commander in 
chief. General Lake; about 5500 men were prepared to invade the province 
of Bundelcund, and to cover the province and city of Benares; 52lO men 
were assembled for the invasion of the province of Cuttack; 4281 men were 
stationed as a field force in Guzerat; 10,823 men were under the immediate 
command of Major General Wellesley, and destined for active operations 
against the confederated chieftains; 1997 men w T ere stationed at Hyderabad, 
to ensure the tranquillity of that city, and the regular succession to the 
musnud, on the contingency of the Nizam’s death; 1598 remained at Poo- 
nah, for the protection of that capital, and of the person of the Peishwah & 

1900 were on their march from Moodgul, to join the troops under Major 
General Wellesley; and 4032 men occupied a favourable position in the 
Doab of the Kistna and Toombudra rivers, under the command of Major 
’General Campbell. 

It may be proper to state in this place, that the expected death of his 
High ness the Nizam took place at Hyderabad on the fith of August, 1803. ® t,L 

TT .° rT . * 11 Tir- n"iTi • 1 - 1 ° i* . The Nizam di- 

His Highness s eldest son, Mirza Secunder Jah, was immediately proclaimed ed,and was sue 
successor to the Soubahdarry of the Dekan. On the 7 th of August, Mirza Se- “nfthe^Hnce 
cunder Jah took his seat on the musnud, to which he was conducted by the ^ r jah Secua * 
Resident at Hyderabad, and by Rajah Rogotim Rao, the Deputy of his late 
Highness’s Prime Minister, Azim-ul-Omra, and received the congratulatory 
presents of all the principal officers of his government at Hyderabad. 

* Abstract of the forces prepared at the commencement of August, 1803. 

In Hindostan, under the personal command of the commander in chief. 

General Lake, - - - - 

At Allahabad, and Mirzapoor - 

In the Dekan, under the immediate personal command of General Wellesley - 8903 

Subsidiary force under Colonel Stevenson - 7920 

At Hyderabad - - * 

At Poonah - 

At Moodgul - - - 

On the march from Moodgul - 

Field force in Guzerat - - - 

Garrisons at ditto, and at Sufat - 

For the invasion of Cuttack 

Totat, (exclusive of gun lascars, pioneers, artificers and store lascars,) 


10,500 

5500 


i<5,823 

l 997 

1598 

4032 

1900 \ 

4281 

3071 

5216 


54,918 



38 


TRANSACTIONS IN THE 


April 28th. 


March of the 
subsidiary force 
under Colonel 
Stevenson for 
the protection 
of the Nizam’s 
frontier near 
Aurangabad. 


June 4. 

March of Ma¬ 
jor General 
Wellesley from 
Poonah for the 
settlement of 
the Peishwah’s 
territories. 

June 14. 


The event of the late Nizam’s death did not occasion any interruption of 
the public tranquillity, and the accession of Mirza Secunder Jan was gene¬ 
rally acknowledged by the younger sons of his late Highness, and by all the 
officers and subjects of his Highness’s government. 

The preservation of the tranquillity of Hyderabad at that important crisis, 
must be ascribed principally to the position of the British armies under the com¬ 
mand of Major General Wellesley and Colonel Stevenson, and of the corps de 
reserve stationed at Moodgiil, for the purpose of eventually proceeding to Hy¬ 
derabad, if the situation of affairs at that capital should render such a move¬ 
ment expedient or necessary for the preservation of tranquillity, and for secur¬ 
ing the regular order of succession on the death of the Nizam. 

The object of these notes will now be directed to the statement of the pro¬ 
gress of the British arms, in the contest in which the British Government 
of India has been unavoidably involved with the confederate Marhatta chief¬ 
tains. 

Major General Wellesley thought it proper, towards the close of the month 
of April, to order Colonel Stevenson to collect the subsidiary force and the 
Nizam’s troops at Gardoon, and to march to the northward towards Aururv- 
gabad for the protection of that part of the Nizam’s frontier. 

The detachment under the command of Colonel Stevenson * consisted of 
two companies of European artillery, one regiment of European infantry, 
two regiments of native cavalry, and six battalions of native infantry, with a 
fine train of artillery and a large body of the Nizam’s cavalry and disciplined 
infantry. 

With a view to the settlement of the Peishwah’s territories, and to await 
the issue of the negotiation with the confederate Marhatta chieftains. Major 
General Wellesley marched from Poonah, with the main body of the forces 
under his command, on the 4 th of June, and on the 14 th of the same month, 
encamped at Walkee, within a short distance of Ahmednuggur, a strong fort 
belonging to Dowdut Rao Scindiah, at the distance of about eighty miles trom 
Poonah. The force f under the command of Major General Wellesley 


* Abstract of the force under Colonel Stevenson, from the return of the 25 th June, 1803. 


Native cavalry - - - - poo 

European artillery - - - 120 

Ditto infantry, (his Majefty’s Scotch brigade) - 778. 

Native infantry - - 6113 


With 276 gun lascars, and 202 pioneers. 
+ Force under Major General Wellefley. 

Cavalry—His Majesty’s 19th*Dragoons, and the 4th, 5th 
and 7th regts. native cavalry - 

Artillery - — - 

Infantry—His Majesty’s 74th'and 78th regts. and six batta¬ 
lions of sepoys, - 

With.357 artillery lascars, and 653 Madras pioneers 


7920 


h ’} 

•} 


European. 

Native.- 

Total. 

3 *S 4 

1347 

*7 3 1 

- 

- 

172 

7363 

563 1 

6999 


Total 

S903 




MARHATTA EMPIRE. 


39 


amounted to one regiment of European and three regiments of native cavalry, 
two companies of European artillery, two regiments of European and six 
battalions of native infantry, with a considerable train of artillery, a large pro- ' 
portion of artillery lascars and native pioneers, and a.body of 2400 horse fur¬ 
nished by the Rajah of Mysore. The army under General Wellesley was also 
accompanied by an inconsiderable proportion of the contingent of troops 
(about 3000 horse) which the Peishwah is required to furnish by the treaty of 
Bassein. There is no reason however to ascribe this deficiency to any want of 
inclination on the part of his Highness to adhere to the faith of his engage¬ 
ments with the British Government. The Peishwah’s contingent and the 
Rajah of Mysore’s cavalry occupied a position at Sargaree, about twenty miles 
south-east of Ahmednuggur. 

Major General Wellesley received intelligence of the issue of the British Re- 
sident’s negotiation with Scindiah and the Rajah of Berar on the 6th of Au- lies in the 
gust 1803, but was prevented from moving by a very heavy fall of rain which Dekan * 
lasted for three days, and which had rendered the road from Walkee to Ah¬ 
mednuggur totally impassable. The weather cleared up however on the 7 th, 
and on the 8th of August, Major General Wellesley commenced his march to- August 8th. 
wards the fortress of Ahmednuggur, the fortified town of which was, on the F ° r bfi^J°^ 
morning of the same day, attacked and carried by escalade. On arriving within gurtaken by 
a short distance of the fortress, three parties w 7 ere immediately formed for the g^Aug^s”. 
purpose of assaulting the fortified town. The party on the left, commanded by 
Lieutenant Colonel Harness, as brigadier of the day, consisted of two flank 
companies of his Majesty’s 78th regiment, and the advanced picquets; the 
center attack w r as composed of eight companies of the 74th regiment, with some 
sepoys, under the orders of Lieutenant Colonel Wallace ; and the party on 
the right was commanded by Captain Vesey, who had under his orders the 
two flank companies of the 74th and the 1st battalion of the 3d regiment na¬ 
tive infantry. 

The attack under Captain Vesey succeeded without difficulty, but the scal¬ 
ing ladders of the party on the left, under Lieutenant Colonel Harness, were 
placed against a part of the wall which had no rampart, and the troops were 
fired upon from the inside of the town as soon as they had reached the top of 
the ladders, without the possibility of descending into the town, to charge the 
enemy ; Colonel Harness finding that he could not obtain a footing on the 
wall, drew off his party, and entered the town at another point. In the 
mean time, the centre attack, under Lieutenant Colonel Wallace, had moved 
on, and placed the ladders against a bastion, which they carried with great ease. 

The enemy made some resistance in the streets, and a party of Arabs actually 
charged the grenadiers of the 78th ; they were instantly repulsed, and put to F ^nug^ir'ca* 
flight, and the town was soon afterwards evacuated by the enemy, who had pkuiatedtoc e - 
suffered some loss. On the 10th of August batteries were opened against the^^ia^of 
fort, which surrendered on the J 2th of the fame month. The official details a^ 1 * 

of 


40 


TRANSACTIONS IN THE 


of ^is operation are so complete, that it will be sufficient to refer to the printed 
The whole of- copy of Major General Wellesley’s dispatch of the 12th ofAuguft to the 
zett?s ffi wecon-Governor General, which is annezed to these notes. 

pcndbc r> n Ap * The P ossess ^ on this fortress is of peculiar importance to the prosecution of 
our military operations, by securing the communication with Poonab, and by 
affording a depot for supplies of provisions and military stores. Major General 
Wellesley, immediately after the capture of the fort, proceeded to take pos¬ 
session of all the districts dependent on Ahmednuggur, yielding an essential an¬ 
nual revenue of 6,34,000 rupees. These districts were placed under the tem¬ 
porary management and authority of a British officer. 

A respectable garrison was also stationed in Ahmednuggur, and every other 
arrangement being completed, Major General Wellesley moved to the Goda- 
August 24 . very river, w’hich he crossed with the whole of his army by the 24th of Au¬ 
gust. 

August9. On the 2Qth of August, Major General Wellesley arrived at Aurungabad. 

Dowlut Ilao Scindiah and the Rajah of Berar had, on the 24th of August, en¬ 
tered the territories of the Nizam by the Ghaut of Adjuntee, with a large body 
of horse. They passed between Colonel Stevenson’s corps (which had moved 
to the eastward towards the Badowly Ghaut) and Aurungabad, and reached 
Jalnapoor, a small fort, the capital of a district of the same name, about forty 
miles east from Aurungabad ; as soon as the enemy heard of Major General 
Wellesley’s arrival at Aurungabad, they moved to the southward and eastward* 
with an intention (as it was reported) to cross the Godavery, and march 
upon Hyderabad. Major General Wellesley immediately marched to the banks 
of that river, and continued to move to the eastward along its left bank. The 
river, at that period of time, was fordable in every part, which is a circum¬ 
stance that was never known to have happened at that season of the year. 

This movement checked the enemy’s operations to the southward, and they 
immediately returned to the northward of Jalnapoor. It also afforded com¬ 
plete protection to two important convoys of grain and treasure, which had 
been detached bv Lieutenant General Stuart from Moodgul, and of which, 
the last convoy, under Major Hill, joined Major General Wellesley’s force on 
the 18th of September. 

sainapoor Colonel Stevenson returned from the eastward on the 1st of September* 
sdof sepe e and on the 2d attacked and carried the fort of Jalnapoor. While General 
Wellesley was engaged in covering the advance of his convoys, and in pre- 
Coionei sten- venting the enemy from crossing the Godavery river. Colonel Stevenson made 
pnWheene- several attempts to bring the confederates to action. He was successful in the 
night of the Qth of September in surprising their camp, but the nature of the 
attack makes it impossible to know the exact amount of the loss which the 
enemy sustained on that occasion. 

During their incursion towards the Godaverj river, the enemy’s irregular 
horse occasioned little injury to the Nizam’s territories, and in many places 

they 















BATTLE of AS STL 

Fought Sep 1 ! -23.1803. 
Between a Division ot the British 
Armv under the Command or -- 
Major General the Honorable A. 
Wellesley, and the Combined Ar - 
mies of Dowhit Kao Seinduih and 
the Rajah of Berar. 


REFERENCES 

F 5 » 

Green denotes the Enemy it Troops flaps 

their Line ot' Encampment and first Position when 
the British Troops appeared at A. 

A . British Troops marching to attack the Enemy s 
Infantry and Guns posted on their Lett. 

BJ). first Position of British and Enemy s Troops: 
The Enemy took up this Position . when they disco 
vered General Ji cllcslrys intention ot attacking their 
Left at X . C. Second Position of British Infantry on 
the Enemys retreating to D. 

L • CJuirye of the Enemy 's Cavalry on the right of 
British Infantry F. Char nr of British Cavalry on the 
Enemy's let! Cavalry mid Infantry ^1.3 .Bodies of 
Horse belonging to the Prishivah and the Rajah oi 
Mvsorr fanned to check the Enetnvs Cavalry ■ 

G. The march of General Wellesley to allude a hodv 
of the Enemy, who had recovered some ot their Guns 
and turned them upon the rear of the British Line . 
Gincntl Tiedrshy came near X with the yS l, f Regiment 
just as tin• Cavalry had formed ; and took the y* 
Regiment Native ctrvalry nuth him a very hra\y tire 
was kijH up tram the Enemys Guns, and the General 
had his Horse killed under him . 

PI.The last Posithm of the yd * and 7* No til 'e (a 
valry when the Enemy moved off leaving the British 
Troops in possession of all their Artillery Camp Eqm 
page Stores, dr. to. This was the end of the Engagement. 





t'uf/j.i/u,/ hy%J d feck dale /Yeeuzd/dr. 



















































MARHATTA EMPIRE. 


41 


1803. 


they were defeated by the common Peons* stationed in the different villages 
which they attacked.—Finding that this mode of warfare was not attended with 
success, the confederate chieftains determined to change their plan of operations, 
and mbved to the northward, near the Adjuntee pass, where they were joined 
by a detachment of regular infantry (under the command of Monsieur Pohl- 
man, and Monsieur Dupont,) consisting of sixteen battalions, j' with a large 
and well equipped train of artillery. The whole of the enemy’s army was col¬ 
lected about Bokerdum, and between that place and Jaffierabad. 

On the 21st of September, the two corps under the command of Major 2istSeptember. 
General Wellesley and Colonel Stevenson, met at Budnapoor; and it was 
determined that the two divisions should move separately towards the enemy, 
and attack them on the morning of the 24th. The disposition which the 
confederates had hitherto manifested to avoid an action, and the necessity of 
making a vigorous effort against their main force, afforded no other means of 
effecting these important objects, than the plan adopted on this occasion 
by Major General Wellesley. With this view, the two divisions marched 
on the 22d, Colonel Stevenson by the western route, and Major General 22 aSeptember. 
Wellesley by the eastern route, round the hills between Budnapoor and Jalna. 

The division under Major General Wellesley marched to Paugy on the 22d 
September, and on the 23d to Naulnair, at which place intelligence was re¬ 
ceived that the combined armies of Scindiah and the Rajah of Berar w^ere en¬ 
camped at the distance of about six miles from the ground on which General 
Wellesley had intended to encamp. 

General Wellesley immediately determined to attack the enemy, instead of Battle of 
waiting until the morning of the 24th for the arrival of Colonel Stevenson, temle’r—vide* 
If General Wellesley had not adopted this judicious and spirited resolution, the fheAppendix. 1 * 
enemy would probably have harassed him during the whole day of the 23d, 
and as he could afford no other security to the baggage of his army, than the 
entrenchments which he might be enabled to construct, it must have been 
exposed to loss if he had waited until the 24th ; at all events he would have 
been obliged to leave more than one battalion for the protection of the baggage. 

By attacking on the 23d, the enemy would be kept in ignorance respecting the 
position of the baggage of our army : and in addition to these circumstances, 


* Peons , irregular infantry of the worst kind, generally employed in the collection of the 
revenue. 

+ Monsieur Pohlman’sbrigade ----- 6000 | Ordered back towards the end of August 


Monsieur Dupont’s 


4 Battalions belonging to Begum Sumroo - - 
Total infantry, exclusive of artillerymen, and 


2400 j 


of the Rajah of Berar’s infantry 


- - 10,400 

G 


from Boorhanpore. Two battalions 
had already crossed the Taptee on their 
way to that place, when the whole bri¬ 
gade received orders to return and join 
Scindiah’s camp. 


there 





TRANSACTIONS IN THE 


there was every reason to believe that the enemy would learn that Colonel 
Stevenson was on his march to attack them on the 24th, in which case, it was 
extremely probable that they would withdraw their guns and infantry in the 
course of the night of the 23d, in order that they might avoid the combined 
attack of the British armies on the 24th. The immediate attack of the 
enemy therefore was a measure of prudence as well as of courage. 

Having provided for the security of his baggage and stores, which were left 
at Naulnair, under the protection of a battalion of sepoys and four hundred 
men, taken from the native corps, General Wellesley moved on towards the 
army of the confederates, -which he found encamped between and along the 
course of two rivers, the Daitna and the Juah, towards their junction. Their 
line extended east and west along the north bank of the Kaitna river, the 
banks of which are high and rocky, and are impassable for guns, excepting 
at places close to the villages. 

The right of the enemy, which consisted entirely of cavalrj r , was posted in 
the vicinity of Bokerdun, and extended to their line of infantry, which was 
encamped in the neighbourhood of the fortified village of Assye. The British 
army had marched fourteen miles to Naulnair, and the distance from that 
place to the enemy’s camp being six miles, it was one o’clock in the afternoon 
before the British troops came in sight of the combined army of the confederates. 

Although Major General Wellesley arrived in front of the right of the 
enemy, he determined to attack their left, where the guns and infantry were 
posted ; and accordingly marched round to their left flank, covering the march 
of the column of British infantry, by the British cavalry in the rear, and by the 
Marhatta (the Peishwah’s) and Mysore cavalry on the right flank. 

The British troops passed the river Kaitna at a ford beyond the enemy’s left 
flank, near the village of Pepulgaon. Major General Wellesley formed the 
infantry in two lines with the British cavalry as a reserve in a third, in an open 
space between the Kaitna and the Juah rivers, which run nearly parallel. The 
Peishwah’s and the Mysore cavalry* occupied the ground beyond, or to the 
southward of the Kaitna river, on the left flank of the British troops, and kept 
in check a large body of the enemy’s cavalry, which had followed General 
Wellesley’s route from the right of their own position. The first line of 
Major General Wellesley’s infantry consisted of the advanced picquets to the 
right, two battalions of sepoys, and his Majesty’s 78th regiment; the second, 
of his Majesty’s 74th regiment and two battalions of sepoys ; and the third, 
of his Majesty’s lQth dragoons with three regiments of native cavalry. 

The number of British troops engaged, appears to have amounted to about 

* This corps has performed all the duties of light troops with General Wellesley’s army since its 
march from Mysore in March 1803, (during which time they were frequently engaged with the 
enemy,) with a degree of alacrity and zeal, which has seldom been displayed by troops of this de¬ 
scription. To the credit of the government of Mysore, this body of cavalry is as regularly paid as 
the British troops. The Peishwah’s troops have also conducted themselves in a manner to merit 
approbation. 


1200 


MARHATTA EMPIRE. 


43 


1200 cavalry, European and native, 1300 European infantry and artillery, and 
2000 sepoys, in all about 4500 men. The force of the enemy consisted of 
sixteen regular battalions of infantry* (amounting to 10,500 men) command¬ 
ed by European officers, a well equipped train of artillery, exceeding in number 
one hundred guns, and some very large bodies of horse, consisting, it is stated, 
(and as it would appear from a reference to the statement of the forces of the 
confederates as they stood at the commencement of the month of August,) of 
between 30 and 40,000 men. 

The enemy commenced a cannonade (but with little effect) as the 
British troops advanced to the Kaitna river, and having discovered General 
Wellesley’s intention to attack their left,, changed the position of their 
infantry and guns, which no longer (as at first) was along the north bank of 
the Kaitna river, but extended from that river across to the village of Assye 
upon the Juah river, which was upon the right of the British army. A 
second line was formed n ■* -ly at right-angles to the rear of the enemy’s first 
line, with its left towards the village of Assye, and its rear to the Juah 
river, along the bank of which it extended in a westerly direction from the 
village of Assye. General Wellesley immediately attacked the enemy, 
and the British troops advanced under a severe fire from the enemy’s cannon, 
the execution of which was terrible. The British artillery had opened upon 
the enemy at the distance of four hundred yards, but General Wellesley, find¬ 
ing that it produced little effect on the enemy’s powerful and extensive line of 
infantry and guns, and that his guns could not advance on account of the 
number of men and bullocks which had been disabled, ordered his artillery to 
be left behind, and the whole line to move on ; at the same time Major Gene¬ 
ral Wellesley directed Lieutenant Colonel Maxwell, with the British cavalry, 
to take care of the right of the infantry as the line advanced towards the ene¬ 
my, who were soon compelled (notwithstanding their tremendous cannonade), 
to fall back upon the second line in front of the Juah river. The picquets of 
the infantry and the 74th regiment, which were on the right of General 
Wellesley’s first and second lines, suffered particularly, from the fire of the 
guns on the left of the enemy’s position near Assye. The 74th regiment was 
so thinned by the enemy’s cannonade, that a body of the enemy’s cavalry was 
encouraged to charge it, at the moment when the regiment was most exposed 
to this fire, but the enemy were charged in turn by the British cavalry, who 
had been directed to protect the right of General Wellesley’s line, and who 
drove the enemy with great slaughter into the Juah river. At length, the ene¬ 
my’s line, overawed by the steady advance of the British troops, gave way in 
every direction, and the British cavalry, who had crossed to the northward of 
the Juah river, cut in among their broken infantry, and charged the.fugitives 
along the bank of the river with the greatest effect. General Wellesley’s force 
was not equal in numbers to the duty of securing all his advantages in the heat 
of the action, and many of the enemy’s guns, which had been left in his rear. 


* The Rajah of Berar’s infantry and Scindiah’s irregular infantry are 
number, 


* 


not included in this 


1803. 


G 2 


were 


TRANSACTIONS IN TIIE 


were turned again upon the British troops by individuals, who having thrown 
themselves upon the ground near the enemy’s guns, had been passed by the 
British line under the supposition that they were dead, and who availed them¬ 
selves of this artifice (which is often practised by the troops composing the 
armies of native powers in India,) to continue for some time a very heavy fire. 

Some of the enemy’s c®rps, however, went off in good order, and Lieutenant 
Colonel Maxwell w T as killed in charging with the British cavalry, (who had 
recrossed the Juah river), a body of infantry which had retired, and was again 
formed. . Some time elapsed before the fire which the enemy kept up from the 
guns which they had manned in the rear of the British line could be stopped, 
and General Wellesley was himseff' obliged to take the 78 th regiment and the 
7th regiment native cavalry to effect this object. In the course of this opera¬ 
tion the General’s horse was shot under him. The enemy’s cavalry also, which 
had been hovering round the British troops throughout the action, still con¬ 
tinued near General Wellesley’s line. In a short ne, however, the body of 
the enemy’s infantry, which had formed again, and had been charged by the 
British cavalry, gave way; and General Wellesley, having compelled the 
parties of the enemy in the rear of his line to abandon the guns which they 
had seized and turned against the British troops, the victory was decided, and 
the enemy retreated, leaving twelve hundred men dead on the field of battle, 
the whole country covered with their w r ounded, and in the possession of the 
British troops, ninety-eight pieces of cannon, seven standards, their camp 
equipage, a great number of bullocks and camels, and a large quantity of 
military stores and ammunition. 

During this severe and brilliant action, the conduct of Major General Wel¬ 
lesley united a degree of ability, prudence, and of dauntless spirit, seldom 
equalled, and never surpassed. It is impossible to bestow any commendation 
superior to the skill, magnanimity, promptitude and judgment displayed by 
Major General Wellesley on this memorable occasion, nor can any instance be 
adduced from the annals of our military glory, of more exemplary order, firm¬ 
ness, discipline, and alacrity, than was manifested by the British troops in every 
stage of the arduous contest which preceded the splendid victory of Assye. 
The whole line, led by General Wellesley in person, advanced to the charge 
with the greatest bravery and steadiness, without its guns, against a most severe 
and destructive fire of round and grape, until within a very short distance of 
the enemy ; whom the British troops compelled, (notwithstanding their superior • 
numbers,) at the point of the bayonet, to abandon their guns, and to relinquish 
the field of battle, which Scindiah’s infantry had maintained with much obsti¬ 
nacy for more than three hours. Several officers in General Wellesley’s army, 
who have served during the late campaigns on the Continent of Europe, have 
declared, that it is no disparagement to the French artillery to say, that cannon 
were never better served than by the enemy at Assye on the 23d of September ; 
but notwithstanding this circumstance, and the appearance of large bodies of 
the enemy’s cavalry, who several times manifested a disposition to charge 
General Wellesley’s line, the British troops/animated by the gallant spirit of 

the iu 


MAKHATTA EMPIRE. 


45 


their General, and emulating the noble example of his zeal and courage, exhi- 1803 - 
bited a degree of resolution, firmness, and discipline, which completely overawed ' 
the enemy’s cavalry and infantry, and forced them both to retire with the loss 
of 1200 men killed in the field of battle, besides a vast number of wounded 
scattered over the country in the vicinity of the field of battle. It is reported 
that Scindiah’s principal minister received a wound in the action, of which he 
afterwards died, and an European officer (apparently of rank) was also cut down, 
and afterwards found dead on the field of battle. 

The loss sustained by the British troops in this glorious and decisive action 
was very severe, and (as well as the number and description of the ordnance 
taken from the enemy) is exhibited in Major General Wellesley’s official dis¬ 
patch, which (together with the general orders issued by the Governor General 
in council, on this memorable occasion) forms a number in the appendix to 
these notes. 

Colonel Stevenson, with the corps under his command, joined Major General 
Wellesley on the evening of the 24th, and was immediately detached in pursuit 
of the enemy. Colonel Stevenson had experienced several impediments, which 
prevented his joining Major General Wellesley so soon as was expected; but 
no blame can be imputed to that gallant officer, whose conduct has always 
been distinguished by the greatest zeal, activity, and public spirit. 

On the 8th of October, Major General Wellesley received a letter from the October 8. 
camp of Scindiah, signed by Ballajee Khoonjur*, one of Scindiah’s ministers, re- weliTsiey"^? 1 
questing that Major General Wellesley would dispatch a British officer, together ^f 0 d n 
with an officer of the Soubah of the Dekan, to the enemy’s camp, for the pur- desire of the 
pose of negotiating terms of peace between the allies and the confederate negodatea* t0 * 
Marhatta chieftains. Major General Wellesley refused to comply with the pe3ce * 
request of Ballajee Khoonjur: first, because in the application of Ballajee 
Khoonjur, no reference was made to the authority either of Dowlut Rao Scin¬ 
diah, or the Rajah of Berar, and, consequently, that it was not certain that the 
application proceeded from either of those chieftains, either or both of whom 
might hereafter disavow the act of Ballajee Khoonjur; and secondly, because 
the presence of a British officer in the enemy’s camp at that moment would 
have tended to raise the spirits of the enemy’s troops, and to prevent their dis¬ 
persion, and would have been represented by the enemy as an attempt on the 
part of the British Government to sue for peace ; but signified at the same 
time his disposition to receive at the British camp, with every mark of honour 
and respect, any person, duly empowered by the direct authority of Dowlut 
Rao Scindiah, or of the Rajah of Berar, to propose terms of peace to the allied 
powers. 

* Ballajee Khoonjur was originally dispatched by his Highness the Peishwah from Bassein to 
Dowlut Rao Scindiah, for the purpose of explaining to that chieftain the nature of the engagements 
co lcluded by the Peishwah and the British Government, but with the accustomed versatility and 
treachery of a Marhatta politician, Ballajee Khoonjur has subsequently attached himself to the service 
of Scindiah. 

The 


40 TRANSACTIONS IN THE 

1803. The confederates having collected the remains of their broken army, and 
' * 1 moved to the westward along the bank of the Taptee, probably with a view 
to proceed to the southward, by the road which leads by the Caserbary Ghaut 
and Ahmednuggur, to Poonah, General Wellesley determined not to descend 
the Adjuntee Ghaut with the division under his immediate command, but to 
remain to the southward, and to regulate his movements by those of the enemy. 
Boorhanpoor Colonel Stevenson, however, was directed to continue his route to Boorhan- 
thc^m inand” poor *, and there can be little doubt but that the fall of that city, and of the 
^e S ^Tsf 1 oT'oc-strong and important hill fort of Asseerghur (which has been denominated the 
key of the Dekan,) will soon add another triumph to the British arms on the 
western side of India. 

While Major General Wellesley was employed in watching the movements 
and checking the inroads of the armies of Dowlut Rao Scindiah and the Rajah 
of Berar, these chieftains received the most severe blows from the successes of 
the other divisions of the British armies, employed in the operations against the 
provinces of Guzerat, on the western, and of Cuttack on the eastern side of 
India. 

In conformity to the plan of operations suggested to the Government of 
[Bombay by Major General Wellesley, under the orders of the Governor General, 
Lieutenant Colonel Woodington, of the Bombay establishment, with a respcc - 
able detachment composed of his Majesty’s 80 th regiment, and a proportion ot 
European artillery and native infantry, marched from Baroda on the 21 st ot 
August, and encamped within tw r o miles of the fort of Baroach on the 23d. 
On the 2 *lth, Lieutenant Colonel Woodington moved on to Bargood, and 
found the enemy in front of the pettah ready to receive him. The enemy was 
soon compelled to retreat into the fort, and on the following morning Lieu¬ 
tenant Colonel Woodington attacked and took possession of the pettah, on 
the western face of the fort of Baroach. 

The fort of Baroach w as stormed and carried on the 29 th of August, the day 
Baroach storm-on which General Lake, on’the north-west frontier of Oude, (a direct distance 
on 29 thAugust. °f about six hundred miles,, attacked and compelled Monsieur Perron’s forces 
to quit the field of battle near C'oel. 

The breach was reported to be practicable at one A. M. on the 2 Qth, but 
Lieutenant Colonel Woodington was induced to delay the assault until three 
o’clock P. M. not only that he might profit by the assistance of the Fury gun- 
vessel and an armed boat, which it was expected would arrive in time to take 
their stations opposite to the fort, but that it appeared to Colonel Woodington, 
that the proposed time for the assault was a likely hour to find the enemy off 


tober—-Vide 
Appendix D. 


August. 
Operations in 
the province c 
Guzerat. 


August 21. 
August 23. 


* Authentic advices have since been received from the Resident at Hyderabad, under date the 
6 th of November, announcing the surrender of this city to the forces under the command of Colonel 
Stevenson on the i6th of October; and the capitulation of the fort of Asseerghur, situated about 
twenty miles north-east of Boorhanpoor, to Colonel Stevenson on the 2 ist of the same month. The 
garrison of Asseerghur are prisoners of war. A Vaqueel of high rank from Dowlut Rao ''cindiah 
has also arrived in the camp of Major General Wellesley for the purpose of negotiating a peace.— 
Vide the official Gazettes, in Appendix D. 

their 


MARHATTA EMPIRE. 

their guard. The vessel and the armed boat, however, did not arrive in time 
to afford any assistance. The storming party, consisting of 3 00 Europeans and 
200 natives, was led by Captain Richardson of his Majesty’s 80th regiment, 
supported by a second party, amounting to one hundred and fifty Europeans, 
and two hundred and fifty natives, under the command of Major Cuyler of the 
same regiment. The reserve under Captain Bethune of the Bombay establish¬ 
ment was composed of one hundred Europeans and one hundred sepoys. 

The enemy opposed a vigorous resistance to the attack of the troops, but 
were soon compelled to retreat, and to abandon the fort, which w'as completely 
carried w ith little loss on the part of the British troops. After Captain Rich¬ 
ardson had obtained possession of the first gateway, Major Cuyler, with the 
supporting party, pushed on so rapidly, that he overtook a party of Arabs before 
they could effect their escape out of the fort, and killed about two hundred in 
the attack. The enemy also lost several horses during the attack on this party 
of Arabs, which was composed of cavalry and infantry. The casualties on the 
part of the British troops during the siege of Baroach were not severe, and are 
detailed in the official Gazette of the ad of October, 1803, which is annexed to 
these' notes. Together with the fort of Baroach, the honourable Company 
obtained possession of the district of that name, w'hich yields an estimated annual 
revenue of eleven lacks of rupees. 

After the capture of Baroach, Lieutenant Colonel Woodington proceeded to conquest of the 
reduce the district of Champaneer, which was the only territory remaining to champaneer 
Scindiah in the province ofGuzerat; and afterwards attacked the fort of Pow r - completed, nth 
anghur, a strongly fortified hill, with the town of Champaneer attached, Se?tembcr- 
situated about twenty-five miles east of Brodera, on the western confines of 
the province of Mai w a. The town or pettah of Champaneer was attacked and 
carried by assault w ith little loss on the part of the British troops, and the fort 
was summoned to surrender. The Killahdar having refused to comply with 
the summons, preparations were immediately made for the attack of the fort, 
which was to have been stormed on the 17 th of September, when the fort 
capitulated ,and w'as immediately occupied by the British troops. The opera¬ 
tions of the army of Bombay in Guzerat were all planned and executed with 
the greatest judgment, spirit, and courage. 

It has already been stated, that a principal object of the Governor General’s 
attention was directed to the formation of an arrangement for the occupation of 
the province of Cuttack. For this purpose, a part of the northern division of 
the army under the presidency of Fort St. George, commanded by Lieutenant 
Colonel Campbell of his Majesty’s 74th regiment, was ordered to be holdeii in 
readiness to proceed on that expedition from Ganjam ; and a detachment, con¬ 
sisting of two companies of his Majesty’s 22d regiment, and a part of the 20th 
Bengal regiment, was dispatched from Fort William to reinforce the troops 
under Lieutenant Colonel Campbell’s command. The whole of that force 
consisted of five hundred and seventy-three Europeans of his Majesty’s and the 

honourable 



TRANSACTIONS IN THE 


, honourable Company’s troops, 2-108 sepoys, and a party of native cavalry con¬ 
sisting of sixty men. 

The Governor General had also directed a detachment consisting of five 
hundred Bengal native volunteers to' proceed by sea, under the command of 
Captain Dick, for the purpose of occupying the post of Balasore. Previously 
however to the departure of this detachment from Fort William, intelligence 
was received, which induced the Governor General to consider it possible that 
the Marhatta forces in Berar had been reinforced, and that a vigorous opposi¬ 
tion might be expected at the fort of Cuttack, as well as during the advance of 
the British troops from Ganjam. 

This circumstance determined the Governor General to send Captain Dick’s 
detachment, with some additional battering guns, direct to Ganjam, for the 
purpose of reinforcing the main body of the British troops advancing from that 
quarter; and the detachment accordingly embarked * from Fort William on 
the 30th of August. 

In consequence of a severe illness, Lieutenant Colonel Campbell was 
rendered unable to proceed with the detachment from Ganjam. The Gover¬ 
nor General therefore, at the express solicitation of Lieutenant Colonel Camp¬ 
bell, then confined to his bed by a violent fever, dispatched, on the 28th of 
August, his military secretary Lieutenant Colonel Harcourt, of his Majesty’s 
12th regiment of foot, to Ganjam, for the purpose of taking the command of 
the troops assembled at that station. The Governor General also directed a 
second detachment of 500 native volunteers, a proportion of artillery men, four 
field pieces, and a proportion of stores, to embark under the command of Captain 
Morgan of the Bengal establishment, on the 13th of September, from Fort 
William, and to occupy Balasore. Another detachment.was at the same time 
formed at Jelasore, under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Ferguson, of 
the establishment of Bengal, consisting of 770 sepoys and 84 men of the Go¬ 
vernor General’s body guard, with two galloper guns, for the purpose of 
advancing into the province of Cuttack, and forming a junction with the de¬ 
tachment at Ballasore, when the state of the intermediate country, and the pro¬ 
gress of the main division under Lieutenant Colonel Harcourt, should favour 
that movement. This detachment was supported by a force of eight hundred 
•sepoys and some artillery, assembled at Midnapore, which was afterwards 
reinforced by about five hundred native volunteers, who left Fort William for 
that purpose towards the end of the month of September. 

The total number of troops assembled for the invasion of the province of 

* Battering guns, &c. with Captain Dick. 

Four eighteen-pounder iron guns— four twelve ditto—two five and half inch howitzers, with a 
due proportion of shells—4000 eighteen pounder shot—4000 twelve pounder ditto, with a quan¬ 
tity of stores, materials, entrenching tools, &c. &c. 


Cuttack, 


MARHATTA EMPIRE. 


40 


Cuttack, therefore, amounted to 4016 meiv*t of this number 3041 formed the 
main detachment which was ordered to advance from Ganjam under the com- Abstract state, 
mand of Lieutenant Colonel Harcourt, who was appointed to the general 
command of all the forces employed on this service; five hundred men were t a ^ sem ^f 0 ^ f 
on their way under Captain Dick to reinforce Lieutenant Colonel Harcourt; th^ province of 
five hundred and twenty-one (including twenty-one artillerymen) under the Cuttack ' 
command of Captain Morgan, were destined to occupy Balasore; 854 were 
stationed at Jelasore, ready to advance, whenever that movement might be 
deemed advisable ; and 1300 remained at Midnapore, to support the troops of 
Balasore and Jelasore, and to afford at the same time protection to the frontier 
of the Company’s territories, against the incursions of any of the Rajah of 
Berar’s predatory horse. 

On the 8 th of September, the troops under the command of Lieutenant September s. 
Colonel Campbell, commenced their march from Ganjam. On the 11 th of 
September, Lieutenant Colonel Harcourt arrived at Ganjam, and took the 
command of the troops; Lieutenant Colonel Campbell with the zeal and spirit 
which he has manifested on so many occasions, had endeavoured, notwithstand¬ 
ing his illness, to proceed with the troops from Ganjam, but had been carried 
back, after one day’s march, in a state which menaced his life for several weeks, 
and rendered him utterly unable to move with the expedition. 

On the 1 4th of September the British troops, conducted by Lieutenant September 14 . 
Colonel Harcourt, took possession of Manickpatam without any resistance on uken! :kpatam 
the part of the Marhattas, who fled on the approach of Colonel Harcourt’s 
force. 

From that station, Lieutenant Colonel Harcourt dispatched a letter to the 
principal Bramins of the pagoda of Jaggernaut, encouraging them to place the 
pagoda under the protection of the British troops. 

On the 16 th a favourable answer was received from the Bramins, and 
a deputation was sent to the British camp, to claim the protection which 


* Abstract of the force assembled for the invasion of the province of Cuttack, under the com¬ 
mand of Lieutenant Colonel Harcourt: 

European infantry, - - - - 573 

Native infantry, - - - - 2408' 

Native cavalry, ----- 60 


With Captain Dick, 

With Captain Morgan, 

With Lieutenant Colonel Fergusson. 
Sepoys, 

Cavalry, - 


-3041 

500 

521 

770 
84 


854 


Total actually assembled. 
At Midnapore, 


49 16 
1300 


Total that might eventually have been employed 

H 


5216 


had 




50 


TRANSACTIONS IN THE 


1803 . had been offered by Lieutenant Colonel Harcourt; and on the 13th, the 
septembeTTs British troo P s encamped at Jaggernaut, which was immediately evacuated by 
Pagoda of jag- the Marhatta forces, 

gernam occu- The inundated state of the country prevented the march of the British troops 
September 24 . f rom Jaggernaut until the 24th of September. During the march from Jag- 
gernaut to Cuttack, the advanced corps of Colonel Harcourt’s division were 
frequently engaged with parties of the enemy’s troops, who were always repulsed 
with loss. Owing however to a very heavy fall of rain (which had rendered 
the roads impassable,) and the consequent rise of the rivers w'hich intervene 
between Jaggernaut and the town of Cuttack, Lieutenant Colonel Harcourt’s 
October io. progress w r as much retarded, and the British troops did not reach Cuttack 
tack taken, “until the loth of October, w'hen the towm was immediately taken possession 
of, without opposition on the part of the enemy. 

The detachment under the command of Captain Morgan, landed at Ba- 
lasore on the 21st of September, and succeeded in occupying that station, 
after some resistance on the part of the enemy; on the 1st of October, 
Captain Morgan detached two companies of sepoys towards Soorong, a post 
twenty miles south of Balasore, which was then occupied by the enemy. 
This detachment routed a party posted at a village a short distance on the 
north side of Soorong, and being afterwards reinforced by another com- 
^thTIdocto^P an y * to °h possession of Soorong on the. 3d of October, without further 
her. resistance. 

Lieutenant Colonel Fergusson, with the detachment under his command, 
moved from Jelasore on the 23d of September, and on the 4th of October arrived 
at Balasore, without any opposition; on the 10th of that month, Lieutenant 
Colonel Fergusson marched from Balasore w ith a force * consisting of about 
8 J6 men, in consequence of orders from the Governor General, directing that 
officer to proceed to the southward, for the purpose of forming a junction 
with the troops under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Harcourt at Cut¬ 
tack. During the whole of these transactions, the inhabitants of the province 
of Cuttack afforded every assistance to the British troops on their march, and 
expressed the utmost satisfaction at the prospect of being soon placed under the 
protection of the British Government. 

Fort of Bara- Lieutenant Colonel Harcourt had been actively employed, in preparations 
storm on k th e by ** or s ‘ e S e fort of Barabutty at Cuttack. This fort is of strength, and 

14 th October, has only one entrance by a narrow bridge, leading oyei a wet ditch, twenty 

.nozatrgtj'I fsnoloQ jixeirjjvai .1 r;;V. r 

* Detachment under Lieutenant Colonel Fergusson, which marched from Balasore on the ioth of 
October. 

European artillery, - - 20 

Native cavalry from the Governor General’s body guard, - -76 

2d Battalion 7th native infantry, - - - “573 

5th native infantry, a detachment', - - - - 147 

Total 81 6 

With two field pieces, two galloper guns, and fifty gun lascars. 

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MARHATTA empire. 


that he was discovered, he endeavoured, by pushing on with the two flank 
companies of the 70th, to enter the fort, along with the guard stationed out¬ 
side of the gates, behind a strong breastwork which covered the entrance. 
The Colonel succeeded in passing the breastwork, but found the first gate shut. 
Two ladders were immediately applied, on which Major Macleod, of the 70th 
regiment, with two grenadiers, attempted to mount; but they were forced to 
desist by a most formidable row of pikemen, who menaced every assailant 
with certain destruction. A twelve-pounder was then brought up, but some 
time elapsed before it could be placed opposite the gate, which was situated in 
an inconvenient direction, near the flank of a bastion. Four or five rounds 
were fired before any effect was produced on the gate, and during this interval, 
which lasted about twenty minutes, the storming party was exposed to a most 
severe and raking fire of grape, and wall pieces and matchlocks. Our prin¬ 
cipal loss was sustained at this place. Colonel Monson was wounded here by a 
pike, discharged, it is thought from a gun ; at this spot w T ere also killed the 
four grenadier officers and the adjutant of the 76th regiment, with Lieutenant 
Turton of the -4 th regiment native infantry. 

As soon as the first gate was blown open, the troops advanced in a circular 
direction (round a strong bastion of masonry, along a narrow road, and through 
two gateways, which were easily forced) to a fourth gateway, leading into the 
body of the place; during which time, they were much annoyed by a heavy 
cross fire in every direction. It was a work of great difficulty before the 
twelve-pounder could be brought up, and when it arrived the gate was too 
strongly fastened to be forced. Major Macleod, however, pushed through the 
wicket, and entered the fort, after which very little opposition ensued, and 
the fort was completely carried. The general defence of this fort was very 
vigorous, and lasted for one hour; and our loss was extremely severe. The 
French commandant, Mr. Pedron, was taken prisoner. As soon as the British 
troops had entered the body of the place, the garrison endeavoured to escape 
in every direction, many jumped into the ditch, others were drowned ; about 
two thousand were killed, some surrendered, and were permitted to quit the 
fort by the Commander in Chief, who was close to the fort, observing the 
result of his bold and welbplanned attack. 

A large quantity of stores and ordnance was found in the fort, wdth some 
tumbrils of money, which the storming party divided on the spot. 

The fall of the fort of Ally Ghur was attended with the acquisition of most 
of the military stores belonging to the French party. This was the place of 
residence of Monsieur Perron, and it was the grand depot of his military stores. 

The necessary arrangements for the security of the fort of Ally Ghur, and 
for the march of the army, having been completed on the 7th of September, 
the Commander in Chief moved on that day towards Delhi. A battalion df 
sepoys was left in Ally Ghur, and a drawbridge applied to the gateway ; the 
place may now be considered as impregnable to any native power. 

On the 7th of September the Commander in Chief received a letter, under 

date 


50 


TRANSACTIONS IN THE 


isos. date the 5 th of September, from Monsieur Perron, informing the Commander 

September^._in Chief, that he had resigned the service of Dowlut Rao Scindiah, and re- 

cit"sthe r °rotec i " ( l uest * n g permission to pass with his family, property, and the officers of his 
tjonof the Bn- suite to Lucknow, through the territory of the honourable Company and 
mh Govern- t ^ e Nawaub Vizier. Monsieur Perron also applied to the Commander in 
Chief for a sufficient escort to be composed either of British troops, or of his 
own-body guard. General Lake immediately complied with Monsieur Perron’s 
request, and permitted Monsieur Perron to proceed through the British te|ritorie», 
attended by a British officer who had been appointed to meet Monsieur'Perron 
on the frontier, and to conduct him to Lucknow. General Lake also per¬ 
mitted Monsieur Perron to be escorted by his own body guard, and provided 
for the reception of Monsieur Perron in the Company’s territories, and those of 
the Nawaub Vizier, with every mark of respect and honour. 

Septembers. On the 8th of September, the army reached Koorjah, a fort of some 
u^abandoned strength, about thirty miles distant from Ally Ghur, which had been evacuated 
by the enemy, by the garrison on receiving the intelligence of the fall of that fortress. It is 
also probable that the capture of Ally Ghur was one of the causes of Mons. Per¬ 
ron’s determination to solicit the protection of the British Government. Mons. 
Perron, however, stated that his reason for retiring proceeded from his having 
received intelligence that his successor had been appointed, and was actually 
on his way to take possession of his new charge. Mons. Perron also observed, 
that the treachery and ingratitude of his European officers convinced him, 
that further resistance to the British arms was useless. 

About this period, the Commander in Chief received intelligence of the 
surrender to the enemy of a detachment of five companies of sepoys with one 
gun, under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Coningham at Shekoabad. 
This small body of troops was attacked on the 2d of September by a numerous 
detachment of cavalry, under the command of a Frenchman, named Fleury, 
and succeeded in compelling the enemy to retreat; but being again attacked 
September 4 . on the 4 th of September by the same superior force, and having nearly ex¬ 
pended its ammunition, the party of British troops capitulated to the enemy. 
On receipt of this intelligence, the Commander in Chief immediately detached 
one regiment of European and two regiments of native cavalry, under Colonel 
Macan, to join Colonel Vandeleur, who w as in the neighbourhood of Futty 
Ghur, with the 8th regiment of light dragoons, and a detachment of infantry 
with a convoy for the army. The 2d brigade of infantry under Colonel Clarke 
was also ordered to reinforce Colonel Vandeleur’s detachment; but before these 
two parties could arrive at the place of their destination, the enemy recrossed 
the Jumna with great precipitation, and afterwards dispersed. Colonel Ma- 
september7. can’s detachment reached the fort of Firozeabad on the /th of September, 
Tbldaba^n-* which the enemy immediately abandoned, leaving behind them nine guns, 
ed by the ene- an d sev eral of the enemy’s troops, who had been wounded in the late affair of 
Shekoabad. This is the only predatory incursion w T hich the enemy has attempted 
upon the Company’s,frontiers. 


The 













' 


' 




- I 







* 


I 

I 










' 








Twa fiatr^ajui OGuns p. strJhtrc u- Jt/rtul thr Ghaut. crPaa.raae ofth*&wrr wareputt* r'Uqhtby th* HritUh Cavalry. 


S’ort 


JPjLJlW DjF 

- O^^Qattlr c/\ 

D E E H I, 

C//s/ ////' //.. /#C 3 . 

bv die Grand Aruiv under the Command of bis Excellency, 

G'c////v// Gfra/y//,aA'e, 

and a Divillon of Konficuv Perrons Troops, 

ansA&'/Af 

- - of — 

Moy* Lons It 0 CHO ICE AV. 


1‘uIKrhrJ hv J"Stfchdalt J^U’oadJlfMqvre • 




.EXJPJL^M^ ti oms. 


A. A. 


B. 

c.c. 

D.D. 

H. 


E. 

G.G. 

S.S. 


Q.Q. 


M. 


N. 

O . 




The first position of the British Line of Infantry or Encampment, 
on their right. 


with their CavalH 


/ 




V. 


INFANTRY. 

II. M. 76th Regiiae ut, right __ 
1st Battalion 4th Native Infantry next 
2nd Battalion 12th Native Infantry do. 
2nd Battalion 15th Native Infantry 
1st Battalion 15th Native Infantry 
2nd Battalion 2nd Native Infantry 
1st Battalion 14th Native Infantry 
1st Battalion 2nd Native Infantry 




Grand Guard 
in the Morning. 


J 


The first movement of the Cavalry from position A. 

The first formation of the British Line of Infantry after advancing from the right of 
battalions in open column of companies from position A. 


The second position of the British Cavalry on the arrival of the line of Infantry at C.C. 

The 1st Battalion 2d Regiment N. I. thrown out from the village to cover the left of 
the line with K i|i »|i i|i *1' 4 guns under Colonel Ilorsford. 


The first position of the enemy. 

The second formation of the British Troops after they had advanced in line from C.C 
and charged and drove the enemy from their guns. 

ssss The route and last position of the British Line of Infantry, having put to flight 
the whole of the enemy, and obtained entire possession of the field, with all their 
guns, See. Si c. 


Scattered guns and tumbrils left on the field by the enemy. 

A party of British Cavalry with gallopers, who put to flight a body of the enemy’s 
troops that had retired to this village. 

A party of British Cavalry detached with their gallopers, who kept in check the Seik 
Cavalry from charging the right flank and rear of the British Troops. 

A village with a corn field, surrounded by a high wall and deep ditch to the right of it. 
































































57 


MARHATTA EMPIRfc. 

The army under General Late reached Seciindra on the Qth of September. , I803, 

On the morning of the loth, the Commander in Chief made a short march ' r "~ 
to the west of Secundra, and on the 1 Ith, a march of eighteen miles beyond 
Soorajepoor. During the march, intelligence was received that Monsieur 
Louis Bourquien had crossed the Jumna in the night, with sixteen battalions 
ot regular infantry, six thousand cavalry, and a considerable train of ordnance, 
for the purpose of attacking the Commander in Chief. 

The British army reached its ground of encampment near the Jehnah Nul- September n. 
lah (about six miles from Delhi) at eleven o’clock. The troops were much Battleof Delhl ‘ 
fatigued with the length of the march and the heat of the weather, and the 
tents were scarcely pitched, when the enemy appeared in such force in front, 
as to oblige the grand guard and advanced picquets to turn out. The number 
ot the enemy continuing to encrease, the Commander in Chief proceeded in 
person to reconnoitre them with the whole of the cavalry (three regiments), 
and found the enemy drawn up on rising ground, in order of battle, and in 
full force. Their position was strong, each flank being covered by a swamp, 
beyond which was posted the cavalry. Their numerous artillery covered their 
front, which was further protected by a line of intrenchments ; their front was 
the only direction in which the enemy could be attacked. As the British 
cavalry approached, the enemy began a very heavy cannonade. 

As soon as the Commander in Chief had reconnoitred the enemy’s position, 
orders were sent to camp for the infantry and artillery to join the cavalry. 

The line was ordered to fall in without delay, and move to the front by co¬ 
lumns of grand divisions from each battalion. The camp was left standing, 
the advanced picquets, encreased by a part of the 1 7th regiment native infantry, 
were brought in for its protection. The whole of the British troops who were 
engaged in this memorable action were his Majesty’s 70th regiment^ seven 
battalions of sepoys, the artillery, the 27th dragoons, and two regiments of 
native cavalry, and amounted in number to about four thousand five hundred 
men. The number of the enemy amounted to about thirteen thousand in¬ 
fantry, and six thousand cavalry, in all nineteen thousand men. 

Notwithstanding the alacrity and expedition with which the British troops 
got under arms, one hour elapsed before the infantry could join the cavalry, 
which had advanced about two miles in front, and was exposed to a severe and 
well directed cannonade, which occasioned a considerable loss of men and 
horses. During this interval, the Commander in Chiefs horse was shot 
under him. 

Finding that it would be difficult to defeat the enemy in their actual po¬ 
sition, General Lake determined to make a feint, by which the enemy should 
be induced to quit their intrenchments, and to advance on the plain. With 
this view the British cavalry was ordered to retire, both for the purpose of 
drawing the enemy from his strong position, and of covering the advance of 
the British infantry. This retrograde movement was performed with the 
greatest order and steadiness, until the British infantry had effected their junc- 

I tion 


58 


TRANSACTIONS IN THE 


j* 03 . _ tion with the cavalry, when the cavalry immediately opened from the center, 
y-»« anc j a p owe( j t ^ e j n fantry to pass on in front, 

As soon as the cavalry began to retire, the enemy conceiving this movement 
to be a real retreat, immediately quitted their strong position, and advanced 
with the whole of their guns, shouting and exhibiting every demonstration of 
perfect confidence in superior prowess. They halted, however, on seeing the 
British infantry, who were instantly formed into one line, with the cavalry in 
a second line, about forty yards in the rear of the right wing of the infantry ; 
the whole of the British force then advanced towards the enemy, the Com¬ 
mander in Chief in person leading his Majesty’s 76th regiment. Notwith¬ 
standing a tremendous fire of round, grape, and chain shot, the troops, led by 
General Lake, advanced with the greatest bravery and steadiness, and without 
taking their musquets from their shoulders until they had reached within a 
hundred paces of the enemy, when the enemy commenced a heavy fire of 
grape from all their artillery. Orders were instantly given to charge the enemy 
with bayonets ; the whole British line fired a volley, and, with their illustrious 
Commander in Chief at their head, rushed on with such impetuosity, that 
the enemy gave way and fled in every direction. As soon as the British troops 
halted after their charge, General Lake, with his accustomed judgment, or¬ 
dered the line to break into columns of companies, which manoeuvre being 
effected,, the British cavalry (European and native) charged through the inter¬ 
vals with their galloper guns, and completed the victory, by pursuing the 
enemy to the banks of the Jumna, and driving vast numbers into the middle 
of the river. The galloper guns attached to the cavalry were opened with 
considerable effect upon the fugitives in this situation. 

The Commander in Chief headed in person the 76th regiment, which ex¬ 
hibited? under such a glorious example, the most eminent proofs of valour 
and discipline. 

While these operations took place to the right under the immediate direction 
of the Commander in Chief, the left wing, under Major General St. John, 
attacked the enemy with great vigour, and the success of the British arms 
was complete in every point. The enemy left the whole of their artillery, 
sixty-eight pieces of ordnance, and thirty-seven tumbrils laden with ammu¬ 
nition, in our possession; tw'enty-four tumbrils laden with ammunition were 
blown up in the field of battle, exclusive of which, many tumbrils and 
ammunition carriages were left by the enemy in the Jumna, and in the 
Jehnah Nullah. Tw'o tumbrils, containing treasure, were also taken on the 
field of battle. 

S-tfSf* The l° ss t ^ ie enem y was very considerable, and has been estimated to have 
ticof Delhi, amounted to three thousand men. The exertions of the British army were 
orderslsfuedon P ro P ort ionate to the brilliant result of this glorious victory, and the w hole 
arecontainedin arm y’ w ith the Commander in Chief, was under arms for seventeen hours. After 
Appendix d. the action, the army took up fresh ground, nearer the river. 

The battle was fought within view of the minarets of Delhi, and the whole 

army 


MAnHATTX EMPIUE. 


AO 

army encamped the next day close to the Jumna river, opposite to that city. 

The unfortunate Emperor, Shah Aulum, sent to General Lake immediately V ”" v ~~ r 
after the action, to express his anxious desire to place his person and autho¬ 
rity under the protection of the victorious arms of the British Government. 

On the 14 th of September the army began to cross the Jumna, and on 
same day Monsieur Bourquien, who comtoahdCd the forces of the enemy in Bourquienand 
the late action of the 11th of September, together with four other French office^turren- 
officers, surrendered themselves as prisoners to General Lake. 

His Excellency the Commander in Chief Had the honour to pay his first visit General Lake, 
to his Majesty Shah Aulum on the 1 Oth of September, and to congratulate ^ lde A P pendl * 
his Majesty on his emancipation from the controul of the French faction 
which had so long oppressed and degraded him. v&tatf^Em 

From the Commander in Chief’s dispatches, and such accounts as haveperorshah 
been received from private sources of intelligence, it appears, that his Majesty Aluunt 
was graciously pleased to direct his eldest son and heir apparent, the Prince 
Mirza Akbar Shah, to conduct the Commander in Chief to his royal presence. 

The Prince was to have arrived at the Commander in Chief’s tent at twelve 
o’clock, but did not reach the British camp until half past three o’clock P. M. 

By the time his Royal Highness had been received, remounted on his elephant, 
and the whole cavalcade formed, it w as half past four o’clock. The distance 
being five miles, the Commander in Chief did not reach the palace of Delhi 
until sunset. The crow 7 d in the city was extraordinary, and it was with some 
difficulty that the cavalcade could make its way to the palace. The courts of 
the palace were full of people, anxious to witness the deliverance of their Sove¬ 
reign from a state of degradation and bondage. At length the Commander in 
Chief was ushered into the royal presence, and found the unfortunate and 
venerable Emperor, oppressed by the accumulated calamities of old age, 
degraded authority, extreme poverty, and loss of sight, seated under a small 
tattered canopy, the remnant of his royal state, with every external appearance 
of the misery of his condition. 

It is impossible to describe the impression which General Lake’s conduct on 
this interesting occasion has made on the minds of the inhabitants of Delhi, 
and of all the Mussulmans, who have had an opportunity of being made 
acquainted with the occurrences- of the lGth of September, 1803 . In the 
metaphorical language of Asia, the native news-writers, who describe this 
extraordinary scene, have declared that his Majesty Shah Aulum recovered his 
sight from excess of joy. In addition to many other marks of royal favour 
and condescension, the Emperor was graciously pleased to confer on General 
Lake the second title in the empire.* 

The result of the spirited and judicious operations at Coel on the 2Qth of 
August, of the gallant assault of Ally Ghur on the 4th, and of the glorious 


* The Persian titles conferred on General Lake, are, Sutniam it Dowlab Ashghah ul Mulk , Khan 
Dowran Khan , General Gerard Lake Bahadur , Futteh Jung j signifying in English, “ The sword of 
the state , the hero of the land , the lord of age, and the victorious in war.” 

1 2 battle 


Co 


TRANSACTIONS IN THE 


battle of Delhi on the 11th of September, deeply affected the French influence 
and authority, and secured to the British power, the possession of the Doab of 
the Ganges and Jumna. 

The French officers, deprived of authority, and finding themselves the ob¬ 
jects of just indignation to the country which they had governed, were com¬ 
pelled to solicit the protection of the British Government, while the conquered 
country (rejoicing in the change of masters, and deeply impressed with a just 
sense of the humane conduct and orderly behaviour of the British troops, of 
the protection offered by General Lake to the persons and property of the 
inhabitants, and of the mild treatment which the British Government extends 
to all its subjects) regarded the British troops as friends and deliverers. 

These important victories rescued the unfortunate Emperor Shah Aulum 
from the power of his oppressors. By the success of our arms, interesting pur¬ 
poses of humanity were accomplished ; and so far as this object is regarded in a 
political point of view, his Majesty Shah Aulum, being placed under the 
protection of the British Government* no other power can now avail itself of 
the weight of and influence which the Emperor’s name must ever possess 
amongst the Mussulman inhabitants of Hindostan. 

The attention of the Governor General is now directed to the formation of 
a permanent arrangement for the future maintenance of the dignity and com¬ 
fort of his Imperial Majesty, and of the royal family, on principles calculated to 
provide for those desirable objects with the utmost benefit to the reputation of 
British justice and liberality, and to secure the important advantages to be de¬ 
rived from the connection, which will now be renewed upon permanent prin¬ 
ciples between the royal house of Timur, and the British power in India. The 
Governor General has also given directions to provide for the nobility and the 
great officers of state at Delhi (whose fortunes have been destroyed by the 
successful usurpation of Scindiah, and of the French adventurers,) on principles 
similar to those which, in the year )ffQQ, after the fall of the fortress of Se- 
ringapatam, induced the Governor General to make a liberal and permanent 
provision for the principal officers and nobility of Tippoo Sultaun. 

Having made the necessary arrangements for his march from Delhi, the 
Maroh®fGe-’ Commander in Chief moved from that city towards Agra on the 2-ith of Sep- 
towardaAgrr. tember; Lieutenant Colonel Ochterlony, Deputy Adjutant General of the 
Honourable Company’s army, was stationed at Delhi, to attend the person and 
receive the commands of the Emperor Shah Aulum. A garrison was also left 
at Delhi, consisting of one battalion and four companies of native infantry, 
together with a corps of Me wattles, then raising under the command of British 
officers, who had been in the service of Scindiah, and who, on the commence¬ 
ment of hostilities with that chieftain, quitted his service, and joined the army 
under General Lake. 

September so. O n ^ ie 30t ^ September, Monsieur Dudernaigue and two other officers in 
nlrVaS'two Schidiah’s service, who had been detached with some regular battalions by 
ether officers in Scindiah, in the month of July, from the Dekan, for the purpose of reinforcing 

Monsieur 


MARHATTA EMPIRE. 


6 1 


Monsieur Perron’s army in Hindostan, surrendered themselves prisoners to 180:1 - 
Colonel Vandeleur, who, with the detachment* under his command, had occu- s ' im i7.ai’s Jr- 
pied the city of Muttra on the right bank of the Jumna, in which was esta- vic , c, 1 l ’ rrL , I \ der 

t ii , , J r ^ ^ , ° . . r . , to Colonel \ an- 

bJisnea one or Monsieur rerron s principal toundencs o! cannon. deieur. 

During these transactions, the detachment of British troops assembled under 
the command of Lieutenant Colonel Powell of the Bengal establishment, nedr September. 
Allahabad, for the purpose of co-operating with a force under the command of 
Himmut Bahadur, (one of his Highness the Peishwah’s principal officers in 
Bundelcund) in the occupation of that province, crossed the Jumna on the 
f»th of September I 803, and entered the province of Bundelcund: on the lf>th 
of September, Lieutenant Colonel Powell was joined by Rajah Himmut Ba¬ 
hadur with his forces j' amounting to about P3 or 14,000 men. 

J he united detachments arrived on the bank of the river Cane,£ on the 23d 
of September, and found the troops of Shumshere Bahadur § encamped on the 
opposite bank of the river in considerable strength. 

Having reduced several forts in the vicinity of his camp, and having estab¬ 
lished the British authority in the territory lying between the Jumna and the 
Cane, Lieutenant Colonel Powell, accompanied by Himmut Bahadur, crossed 
the latter river on the 10th of October, and on the 12th of the same month October rz—. 
engaged Shumshere Bahadur,|| in which action that chieftain was compelled h a Xrdefeat^f 
to retreat with loss. Accounts have since been received, that Shumshere 
Bahadur has crossed the river Retwah,^[ and w r as retiring from the province of 
Bundelcund. 

The army under General Lake arrived at Muttra on the 2nd of October; October 2 — 
having formed a junction with Colonel Vandeleur’s detachment, the Com-arr"ves a at Mut- 
mander in Chief moved on to the fortress of Agra, which place the army reached tra- 
at about two P. M. on the 4th of October. A summons was immediately sent 
to the garrison, but no answer was returned to General Lake. It appears that 
all the European officers in the fort had been placed in confinement, and that 
considerable confusion prevailed within the fort. 

His Majesty’s 8th and 29th dragoons ; the 1st and 4th native cavalry, three battalions and five 
companies of native infantry. 

f About 4000 horse, 8000 irregular infantry, three regular battalions under the command of an 
European officer, and twenty-five pieces of ordnance of different calibres. 

% This river joins the Jumna, a little below the town of Corah, and runs nearly in a north and 
south direction by the fort of Ballinger, through the province of Bundelcund. 

§ Shumshere Bahadur is the son of Aly Bahadur, which Aly Bahadur was the son of the first 
Shumshere Bahadur, the natural son of Bajee Rao, the first Peishwah. Aly Bahadur conquered a 
great part of the province of Bundelcund from the Bundela Rajah, in the name of the Peishwah. 

Although he was in fact one of the Peishwah’s officers, he availed himself of the weakness of the 
state of Poonah, and of his distance from that government, to render himself nearly independant of 
the Peishwah’s authority. 

[| This action is detailed in Lieutenant Colonel Powell’s official dispatch to the Adjutant General, 
dated Camp at Capsah, 12th October, a printed copy of which is annexed to these Notes. 

The river Betwah joins the Jumna a little below Calpy, and running in a south-west direction 
touches the western extremity of the province of Bundelcund, near the town, in about 25 north 
latitude, and 78 east longitude. 


Seven * . 


62 


TRANSACTIONS IN THR 


180r t Seven battalions of the enemy’s regular infantry, with several guns, were en- 
' ^ camped on the outside of the fort, and occupied the town and principal mosque 
of Agra, as well as some ravines which led through broken ground, from the 
British camp on the south side of the fort, to the ditch and to the Delhi gate¬ 
way. Finding it impossible to make approaches against the fort of Agra as 
long as these battalions maintained their position to the south and south-west 
of the fort, General Lake determined to occupy the ravines, and to dislodge 
the enemy from the town. 

October in.— With this view, on the morning of the 10th of October, Colonel Clarke, 
'taken bylis? 1 w ^° was encamped in the rear of the town, was directed to take possession of 
sauit. it with his brigade of sepoys, at the same time that three battalions of sepoys, 

under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Macculloch, Major Haldane, and 
Captain Worsley, advanced to occupy the ravines. The attack succeeded 
completely ; after a long and severe contest, the enemy evacuated the town 
and retired, some into the principal 'mosque, and others to the ditch near the 
gateway, under cover of the guns of the fort. The attack on the ravines was 
equally successful, but, owing to the high spirit and bravery of the officers and 
men of the native battalions, who quitted the ravines, and gained the glacis, 
for the purpose of seizing the enemy’s guns, the British battalions employed on 
this attack were exposed to a heavy fire of grape and matchlocks from the 
fort, and suffered a severe loss in men and officers. The enemy were entirely 
defeated with the loss of six hundred men, and the British troops captured 
twenty-six guns, with several tumbrils. The remainder of the enemy’s bat¬ 
talions, amounting to about two thousand five hundred men, afterwards agreed 
to surrender to General Lake, and marched into the British camp on the morn¬ 
ing of the 13 th of October. 

The Commander in Chief’s official details of this gallant action, and of the 
surrender of the enemy’s battalions on the 13 th of October, are contained in 
the appendix to these notes. 

On the evening of the 1 3 th of October, the garrison of the fort solicited a 
cessation of hostilities, for the purpose of negociating the terms of capitulation ; 
and dispatched an European officer to the British camp, with a letter signed 
by the principal native officers in the fort, stating the conditions on which 
they were disposed to surrender. The Commander in Chief immediately dis¬ 
patched a British officer into the fort, for the purpose of finally adjusting the 
terms of the capitulation, but while that officer was actually engaged in t,he 
negociation, the firing from the fort recommenced, and the British officer re¬ 
turned to camp. In consequence of this treacherous act, the breaching bat¬ 
teries of the British army opened on the morning of the 1 7th, within three 
hundred and fifty yards from the fort. Considerable impression was made on 
the walls of the fort by the fire of the batteries, which would soon have effected 
October n. a practicable breach, and the fort capitulated on the night of the 17 th. The 

Capitulation of _ • r . r , r . 0 , 

the fort of garrison, consisting of about five thousand men, marched out at noon on the 
Appendixih Allowing day, when the place was immediately occupied by the British troops 

under 


MARHATTA EMPIRE. , 63 

under the command of Colonel Macdonald. A large quantity of stores and 
many guns were found in the fortress of Agra, together with several money 
tumbrils, containing twenty-four lacs of rupees. 

The capture of this fortress, and of the important posts of Delhi and Muttra, 
secures the navigation of the river Jumna, and the possession of a’ considerable 
tract of country on the right bank of that river. The independant chieftains in 
that quarter are favourably disposed to the British Government; with several 
of the most powerful of these chieftains the Commander in Chief has, in con¬ 
formity to the Governor General’s instructions, already concluded treaties, by 
which their alliance and co-operation is effectually secured. 

The intelligence of the happy termination of this branch of the brilliant 
campaign on the north-west frontier of Oude was received at Fort William 
with sentiments of joy and admiration, proportionate to the public sense of the 
bravery, spirit, activity, and eminent talents manifested by General Lake, as From ti»e 29th 
well as of the valour, discipline, and persevering courage of the officers and ofthellnir 
men of the gallant army, which, under his personal command, and imitating a iC°ei,t° the 
his illustrious example, had accomplished with unexampled rapidity all the 1m- the day of the 
portant services prescribed in the Governor General’s comprehensive plan o £ fall0fA s ra ' 
operations for this branch of the campaign. 

The British army marched from Agra on the 27th of October, in pursuit of^miymardT 
a force of the enemy, composed of fifteen of Monsieur Perron’s regular bat- fromAgr*. 
talions, (which had been detached by Scindiah from the Dekan in the early 
part of the campaign under the command of Monsieur Dudernaigue) and of 
two battalions which had effected their escape from Delhi, after the battle of 
the 11th of September. During the siege of Agra, this force occupied a posi¬ 
tion about thirty miles in the rear of the British army, but made no attempt to 
interrupt the siege of that important fortress. The Commander in Chief w r as 
anxious to defeat this force, because it was- furnished with a numerous artillery, 
and because its object was to proceed towards Delhi, for the purpose of at¬ 
tempting the recovery of that important post. The existence of so large a force 
of the enemy in Hindostan alarmed those native chieftains who were disposed 
to unite with the British Government, and encouraged all those who might be 
adverse to our interests, 

A heavy fall of rain compelled the army to halt on the 28 th at Kerowly ; on Octobers— 
the 29th of October the army marched to the north-west of Futtypore Sikree. Octobers!— 
On the 30 th the army made a march of twenty miles, leaving the heavy guns 
and baggage in Futtypore under the protection of two battalions of native in- *««yporeSik- 
fantry from the 4 th brigade. 

On the 31 st of October, the army marched twenty miles, and encamped a October 31. 
short distance from the ground which the enemy had quitted the same morn¬ 
ing. Possessed of this intelligence, the Commander in Chief determined to 
make an effort to overtake the enemy with all the cavalry of the army, intend¬ 
ing to delay the enemy by a light engagement until the British infantry should 
be able to effect a junction with the cavalry in advance, and to take advantage 


1803 . 


TRANSACTIONS IN THE 

of any confusion 'which might be occasioned by his attack to seize the enemy’s 
guns and baggage. With this view the Commander in Chief, with the whole 
of the cavalry, marched at twelve o’clock on the night of the 31 st of October, 
and having performed a march of twenty-five miles in little more than six 
hours, came up with the enemy about seven o’clock on the morning of the 1st 
of November. The enemy’s force amounted to seventeen regular battalions 
of infantry, (about yooo men,) seventy-two guns, and from 4 to 5000 cavalry. 
Previously to the march of the British cavalry, orders w T ere given for the infantry 
to follow at three o’clock in the morning. 

When the Commander in Chief, at the head of the cavalry, reached the 
enemy, they appeared to be on their retreat, and in such confusion, that the 
Commander in Chief was induced to try the effect of an attack with the cavalry 
alone, without waiting the arrival of the infantry. By cutting the embank¬ 
ment of a large reservoir of water, the enemy had rendered the road difficult to 
pass, and had availed them elves of this circumstance (which caused a consi¬ 
derable delay in the advance of the cavalry,) to occupy an advantageous posi¬ 
tion, having their right in front of the village of Laswaree and throwm back 
upon a rivulet (the banks of which were very high and difficult of access), their 
left upon the village of Mohaulpoor, and their whole front concealed by high 
grass, and protected by a powerful line of artillery. A cloud of dust, which 
had been raised by the movements of the cavalry, completely obscured the 
enemy, and prevented the Commander in Chief from discovering this change 
in their position-; General Lake therefore proceeded in the execution of his 
original plan, (by which he hoped to prevent the retreat of the enemy and to 
secure their guns,) and directed the advanced guard and the 1st brigade of 
cavalry to move upon the point where the enemy had been observed in motion, 
but which proved to be the left of their new position. Tne remainder of the 
cavalry w'as ordered to attack in succession as soon as they could form, after 
passing the rivulet. 

The charge of the advanced guard under Major Griffiths, of his Majesty’s 
29th dragoons •'aid-de-camp to the Governor General,) and of the 1st brigade, 
led by Colonel Vandeleur, of his Majesty’s 8th dragoons, was made with much 
gallantry. The enemy’s line w r as forced, and the cavalry penetrated into the 
village, and took possession of several of the enemy’s guns. The attacks of the 
brigades of cavalry, and particularly of the 3 d brigade under Colonel Macan, 
were conducted with the same spirit and with equal success. The fire, how¬ 
ever, from other guns which the enemy still maintained, was so galling and 
destructive, that it was found necessary to withdraw the cavalry out of reach of 
the enemy’s fire. The British cavalry retired in perfect order, retaining pos¬ 
session of a part of the enemy’s artillery. Several guns however, which had 
been captured by the British cavalry, were abandoned from a want of draft 
bullocks. 

■Colonel Vandeleur, who had manifested the greatest skill, judgment, and 
gallantry, was killed in this charge. During his command of the detachment 

which 



Sin.wrah 


t LaiWa ry 


rurwar&h. 


Mainus Ny ^ 
a deep Nullah 


\\fooperry 


H «Ts owly 


Gcd s a>ely 




Published. by J. S C o ckdale Pecac/dly. 



4 - 











PLAN OF THE BATTLE OF LASSWARN 

Fouo-lil on the Firll of November, lfio3." 

Retu-een the GrandArmy, commanded by HisFa-cel/encv General Lake, Commander in ( 'hie/' m India, 

* ' •• » 

and n Dirt's ion oftfieArmvot Dowlut Row Srimliali , consisting of 17 Battalions of Monsieur 
Perron’s Regular Infantry, (amounting to 3 or i/ooo Men J ; goov . Wahratta Cavalry ■, and> qa 
Pieees of Cannon;-in which the Enemy were totality defeated with the lots ot all their «, Irtillerg 
Camp Equipage , Colours, Stores, Arms, Ammunition, dte.&'C. dec. 


E X P L A N A T I O N S . 


' -swiw’ UuJt'o .Hriti sli Ciro/n ■ o n the mo - 
......gear fats wary, t/iefffeft eaten ding to t, 


B.B.B.B. 


white lines 


with 72 pieces of Cannon, arranged in Dii isions in front of the fenti 

2 d. Position of the Ene/nv at noon drawn up in two lines, with their . 
up this Position on the arrival of the British Infantrx 

]) E. F. 

tvTud *?'*£*/) J)tSf>OSltlm 01 t/u ‘ British Cavalry < with tiro Batteries of (her Galloper 
by a Squadron, K. l.dK. 2 .) in order to divide the Enemy’s attention it 
soon as the Column of British Infantry should turn their Flank . 


| Hit ■>;/)'? \,ny. f„,, : ,,i jf .faS. 

\ >' - v - C«'* .its. (a,-.-: 4 , N. (Us: 



1 


of the- tsf. • Vo vernier, 
•ed Village ofMohaitlpoor, 
tasks 

front. 'Che Enemy took 


\vanced, and covered each 
and to attache them as 


G.G.G. . 

<6 ^6 4 . 

R.R.R.R.* 


A. Position ot the Enemy, in discovering the movement of the Columns ofBritish Infantry to tun, their 
Hank. 

Route of the Columns oflnfantiy fed byff.M. 7 6 th Regiment; to turn the Enemy’s Riqht Flank, hut 
not being able to turn U, Advanced upon their lines CCC, which they broke and routed, takinq their Guns, 

. lW Bntuh Jntan1r E *** bove the Enemy off, toward- a small Mosque ‘ the rear 

ot the Village, about which the Enemy were met and charged by the British lava/ev in various directions 
l./n.n o.-red lines. 

Jl.M. 2 gth light Dragoons who advanced and charged the Enemys Cavalry at Son the Left Flank of the 
Column of British Infantry. 

. X. A " / V/ "’ *»»»'* ^ a ggage,Infantry,drc.Src.going off. but turned by the charqe of the British 

(avnln ■, l.m.n.o. ' 

A 

r MaW * EnM P ^'npletely broken and routed in various directions. Two thousand of the Enemy find,n„ 

itimpot.slide to succeed in their attempt to escq,e, threw do,,a their Arms and surrendered themselves 
Prisoners, with Baggage, and every thing belonging to the Enemy's Camp. 

Encampment of the British Amy after the Action .left of the line of Infantry at lat'swary; Right at 
Impure or 3 eng rah with the tin airy thrown back on the Right towards the A/illoh, and facing the 'Mills. 

A RaitaUon ot Infantry left in charge of the Fris oners of War, who were all collected at the ullage of Sa- 
jepooraJi. 




L> •> 


% 


Benote two small Ruins, of Walls. 


Itt Trees. 


\ 


A small Reservoir of Water. 













































































































. 































. 






























































































MARHATTA EMPIRE. 


which had been formed in the month of September 1803 , for the protection of 
the Doab of the Ganges and Jumna, this brave and accomplished officer dis¬ 
played considerable zeal and ability, and by his judicious movements compelled 
the enemy to make a precipitate retreat from'the British territories. His death 
was universally deplored, and may justly be deemed a' public loss. 

The British infantry having marched at three o’clock in the morning, arrived 
upon the banks of the rivulet about twelve o’clock at noon. After so long a 
march (twenty-five miles,) it was absolutely necessary to allow some time for 
the men to refresh themselves, during which the enemy sent a message to the 
Commander in Chief, offering on certain conditions to surrender their guns. 
Anxious to prevent the further effusion of blood, the Commander in Chief 
directed a letter to be written, acquiescing in their proposals, and allowing the 
enemy one hour to fulfil the conditions of surrender proposed by themselves. 

In the mean while the necessary arrangements were adopted, for a general 
attack on the enemy, as soon as the prescribed time should elapse. The British 
infantry was formed into two columns on the left; the first composed of the 
right wing, under Major General Ware, was destined to assault the village of 
Mohaulpoor, and to turn the enemy’s right flank, which since the morning 
had been thrown back, leaving a considerable space between it and the rivulet. 
The enemy had formed their infantry into two lines, with their right throw a 
back, the first line to the eastward and covering the village of Mohaulpoor, 
and the second to the westward of that village. Their cavalry was to the right 
of their position. The second column of British infantry composed of the left 
wing, under Major General St. John, was ordered to support the first column. 
The third brigade of cavalry under Colonel Macan was directed to support the 
infantry ; Lieutenant Colonel J. Vandeleur, with the second brigade of cavalry, 
was detached to the right of the British army to watch the enemy’s left, to 
avail himself of any confusion of the enemy’s line, and to attack them upon 
their retreat. The first brigade of cavalry under Lieutenant Colonel Gordon, 
(who succeeded to the command on the death of Colonel Vandeleur,) composed 
the reserve, and was formed between the 2d and 3 d brigades. As many of the 
field pieces of the British army as could be brought up, together with the 
galloper guns attached to the cavalry, formed four different batteries to support 
the attack of the infantry. 

At the expiration of the time which General Lake had allowed the enemy 
to determine on a surrender of their guns, no reply having been received from 
the enemy, the British infantry advanced to the attack, moving along the bank 
of the rivulet through high grass, and broken ground, which afforded cover. 
As soon as the British infantry became exposed to the enemy’s guns, the four 
British batteries commenced their fire, and continued to advance, notwithstand¬ 
ing the superiority of the enemy’s artillery, both in number and weight of 
metal. The cannonade on both sides was extremely severe, and maintained 
with great spirit and vigour. The enemy’s artillery was exceedingly well 

K served. 


transactions in the 


served, and they threw grape from large mortars, as well as from guns of a very 
heavy calibre. 

When the 75 th regiment, which headed the attack, had arrived within one 
hundred and fifty paces of the enemy, they were so much exposed to the 
enemy’s fire, and were losing men so fast, that the Commander in Chief judged 
it preferable to proceed to the attack with that regiment, and as many of the 
native infantry (the 2d battalion of the 12th, and five companies of the l 5 th) 
as had closed to the front, rather than to wait until the remainder of the column, 
which had been much impeded in its advance, should be able to form. 

As soon as this small body of brave men arrived within reach of the enemy’s 
cannister shot, a most tremendous fire opened from the enemy’s artillery. The 
loss sustained by the British troops was vdry severe, and the heavy cannonade 
from the enemy’s line was sufficient alone to prevent a regular advance ; at 
this moment, the enemy’s cavalry also attempted to charge, but was repulsed 
by the fire of this gallant body of British infantry; the enemy’s cavalry, how¬ 
ever, rallied at a short distance, and assumed so menacing a posture, that the 
Commander in Chief ordered an attack from the British cavalry. Major 
Griffiths having at that instant been unfortunately killed by a cannon shot, 
this service was performed by his Majesty’s 2Qth dragoons under Captain Wade, 
with the greatest gallantry and success, and in a manner highly honourable to 
every officer and trooper in that regiment. The remainder of the first column 
of the British infantry arrived in time to join in the attack of the enemy’s 
reserve, which was formed in the rear of their first line with its left upon the 
village of Mohaulpoor, and its right thrown back. 

About this time, Major General Ware fell dead by a cannon shot. He was 
a gallant officer, and his loss was deeply lamented. On his death, the command 
of this column devolved upon Colonel Macdonald, who though wounded, 
continued to conduct himself in this important command, in a manner which 
was highly satisfactory to the Commander in Chief. 

The enemy opposed a vigorous resistance to the last, and did not abandon 
their position until they had lost all their guns. Even then their left wing 
attempted to retreat in good order, but was frustrated by his Majesty’s 2Qth 
regiment of dragoons, and the 5 th regiment of native cavalry under the com¬ 
mand of Lieutenant Colonel John Vandeleur, of the 8th light dragoons, who 
broke in upon the enemy’s column, cut several to pieces, and drove the rest in 
prisoners, with the whole of the enemy’s baggage. 

The loss which the British troops sustained in the atchievement of this com¬ 
plete victory was severe. 

Two thousand of the enemy w r ere taken prisoners, and there is every reason 
to believe that the remainder of the enemy was destroyed on the field of battle. 

The enemy left in the possession of the British troops the whole of their 
bazars, camp equipage, and baggage, with a considerable number of elephants, 

camels, 


MAR II ATT A EMPIRE. 


07 


camels, and upwards of 1600 bullocks; seventy-two pieces of cannon of dif- 1303 - 
ferent calibres, forty-four stands of colours, and sixty-four tumbrils completely 
laden with ammunition. Three tumbrils with money were also captured, 
together with fifty-seven carts laden with matchlocks, musquets and stores, 
and some artificers’ carts. Several tumbrils with ammunition were blown up 
during the action, and 5000 stand of arms which had been thrown down by 
the enemy, w>ere found on the field of battle. The whole of the ordnance 
taken, with the exception of eight guns, was in excellent order, and perfectly 
serviceable, and all the appointments of the enemy’s corps were of the first 
quality. 

The enemy displayed the most determined obstinacy, and called forth the 
utmost exertions of the steadiness and valour of the gallant 76th regiment, 
supported by the remainder of the infantry of the first column, and the repeated 
charges of the cavalry. The resistance opposed by the enemy, was more de¬ 
termined than any opposition which the army under General Lake had expe- 
rienced since the commencement of the campaign. His Majesty’s 76th regi¬ 
ment, on this memorable day, maintained the high reputation which it had 
acquired on many former occasions, but especially in every occurrence of this 
glorious campaign. 

The victory however must be principally attributed to the admirable skill, 
judgment, heroic valour, and activity of the Commander in Chief, General Lake, 
whose magnanimous example, together with the recollection of his atchieve- 
ments at Coel, Aly Ghur, Delhi, and Agra, inspired general confidence and 
emulation. In the morning General Lake led the charge of the cavalry ; and 
in the afternoon conducted in person, at the head of the 76th regiment, all the 
different attacks on the enemy’s line, and on their reserve, posted in and 
near the village of Mohaulpoor. On this day two horses w T ere killed under 
the Commander in Chief. The shot showered around him in every direc¬ 
tion. In the midst of the danger and slaughter which surrounded him, he 
displayed not only the most resolute fortitude and ardent valour, but the 
utmost degree of professional ability and knowledge, availing himself, with 
admirable promptitude, of every advantage presented by the enemy, and frus¬ 
trating every effort of the enemy’s obstinacy and boldness. His masterly 
plans of attack, during the action, were carried into instantaneous execution 
by his unrivalled personal activity; and he appeared, with matchless courage 
and alacrity, in front of every principal charge, which he had planned with 
eminent judgment and skill. 

The staff of the army distinguished themselves greatly, and merit the 
highest commendation. Among these, one of the most distinguished was 
Major G. A. F. Lake, of his Majesty’s g-fth regiment, son to the Commander 
in Chief, who had attended his father in the capacity of aid-de-camp and 
military secretary throughout the whole campaign, and whose gallantry and 
activity in executing his father’s orders, had been conspicuous in every ser¬ 
vice of difficulty and danger. 


This 


TRANSACTIONS IN THE 


This promising young officer constantly attended his father’s person, and 
possessed the highest place in the Commander in Chief’s confidence and 
esteem. In the heat of the action, the Commander in Chief’s horse, pierced 
by several shot, fell dead under him. Major Lake, who was on horseback 
close to his father, dismounted, and offered his horse to the Commander in 
Chief. The Commander in Chief refused ; but Major Lake’s earnest solici¬ 
tations prevailed. The Commander in Chief mounted his son’s horse, and 
Major Lake mounted a horse from one of the troops of cavalry. In a moment 
a shot struck Major Lake, and wounded him severely, in the presence of his 
affectionate father. At this instant, the Commander in Chief found it neces¬ 
sary to lead the troops against the enemy, and to leave his wounded son upon 
the field; a more affecting scene never was presented to the imagination, nor 
has Providence ever exposed human fortitude to a more severe trial. General 
Lake, in this dreadful and distracting moment, prosecuted his victory with 
unabated ardour. At the close of the battle, the Commander in Chief had 
the satisfaction to learn that his son’s wound, although extremely severe, w as 
not likely to prove dangerous. A confident hope is now entertained, that this 
gallant and promising young officer will be preserved to enhance the joy of 
bis father’s triumph, and to serve his King and Country, with hereditary 
honour. 

This splendid victory completes the subversion of Scindiah’s hostile power 
and formidable resources in Hindostan, and of the French force which consti¬ 
tuted the main strength of his army in that quarter. 

The battle was terminated by four o’clock P. M. on the 1st November, 
when the victorious British army encamped with its left to the village of Las- 
w r aree, which is on the north bank of the rivulet, and its right to a village 
called Singrah. A battalion of infantry took charge of the prisoners, who 
were all assembled at the village of Sagepoorah, which is a very short distance 
to the eastward of the village of Mohaulpoor. Great part of the army had 
been under arms for sixteen hours, and had marched in the course of forty- 
eight hours a distance of more than sixty-five miles. The details of this im¬ 
portant victory, together with the returns of the killed and wounded, and of 
the ordnance captured, are annexed to these Notes. 

In reviewing the rapid and brilliant events of the campaign against the 
confederate Marhatta chieftains, and their French forces, every loyal subject of 
the British empire must remark, with the most zealous emotions of just pride 
and national triumph, that in the course of an extensive and complicated 
system of military operations, the glorious success of the British arms has 
been uniform in every part of India. The able and gallant officers and troops 
of his Majesty’s service, and of the several establishments of the three presi¬ 
dencies, have been actuated by equal sentiments of public spirit and honour, 
and have co-operated with equal ardour and success, in an united effort to 
accomplish the objects of the allies. 

From the 8th of August, the day on which hostilities commenced, to the 1st 

of 


MARHATTA EMPIRE. 

of November, the British army has conquered all the possessions of Scindiah 
in Guzerat, the city of Boorhanpoor in Candeish, the province of Cuttack in 
Orissa, the Marhatta dominions between the Jumna and the Ganges, the city 
of Delhi, and the right bank of the Jumna, the city of Agra, and the ad¬ 
joining territory ; has reduced by storm the fortified town of Ahmednuggur, 
the forts of Alyghur, Baroach, and Cuttack; and by capitulation, after having 
opened batteries, the forts of Amednuggur, of Powanghur, and Champoneer, 
the tort of Asseerghur, denominated the key of the Dekan, and the fort of 
Agra, denominated the key of Hindostan ; and has defeated the enemy in 
three general engagements: at Delhi on the 11th of September, at Assye on 
the 23 d of September, and at Laswaree on the 1st November; having taken, 
according to the official returns, on the field of battle, in those engagements, 
and under the walls of Agra, two hundred and sixty-eight pieces of ordnance, 
five thousand stand of arms, two hundred and fifteen tumbrils, and fifty-one 
stand of colours, with a large quantity of stores, baggage, camp equipage, 
and ammunition. 

1 he official returns of the artillery, stores, &c. taken from the enemy, have 
not yet been received from Ahmednuggur, Baroach, the fort of Delhi, Firo- 
zebad, Champoneer, Powhanghur, Jalnahpoor, Cuttack, Boorhanpoor, and 
Asseerghur; but the amount of the returns actually received of ordnance 
taken in the several forts, exclusive of that taken on the field of battle, is 
four hundred and forty-five pieces of ordnance , exclusive of tumbrils, stores, &c. 
making the total number of ordnance, of which returns have been received, 
captured from the 8th of August to the 1st of November, seven hundred and 
thirteen . 

The progress and result of these successful operations, have restored his 
Highness the Peishwah to his sovereign authority at Poonah, and cemented 
our alliance with that prince; have secured the succession of the legitimate 
heir of the sovereign prince of the Dekan to the government of his deceased 
father, the late Nizam; have protected the British interests at Hyderabad 
from injury; have confirmed the stability of the treaties, by which the French 
were expelled from the Dekan in 1/1)8; and have delivered the aged, vener¬ 
able, and unfortunate Emperor of Hindostan, from misery and ignominy, 
from indigence and bondage, and from the hands of the French. 

The achievements of General Lake, and Major General Wellesley, com¬ 
bined with the admirable and exemplary conduct of the officers and troops 
during this campaign, more particularly in the signal and splendid victories of 
Delhi, of Assye, and of Laswaree, must inspire a general sentiment of just 
confidence in the vigour of our military resources, and in the stability of our 
dominion and power. Our uniform success in frustrating every advantage of 
superior numbers, of powerful artillery, and even of obstinate resistance 
opposed by the enemy, constitutes a satisfactory proof of the established supe¬ 
riority of British discipline, skill and valour; and demonstrates, that the 
glorious progress of our arms is not the accidental result of a temporary or 

transient 


TRANSACTIONS IN THE MARHATTA EMPIRE, 
transient advantage, but the natural and certain effect of a permanent 
cause. 

A confident expectation may be entertained, that under the pressure of ac¬ 
cumulated defeat, with aggravated loss of resources, power, reputation, mili¬ 
tary strength, and dominion, in every quarter of India, the confederate Mar- 
hatta chieftains, Dowlut Rao Scindiah and the Rajah of Berar, must speedily 
be compelled to accede to such terms of pacification, as shall be calculated to 
deprive them of the means of disturbing our possessions, and of impairing the 
efficacy and stability of our alliances. 

Under such a general pacification, it is reasonable to expect, that with a 
considerable augmentation of the lustre and glory of the British arms in India, 
will be combined the accomplishment of a comprehensive system of alliance 
and political connection in Hindostan and the Dekan, calculated to promote 
the general tranquillity of India, to secure, on the most permanent founda¬ 
tions, the interests and dominion of the British nation against the hostile 
attempts of any Indian or European power, and to destroy the last remnant 
of French influence in India. 


APPENDIX 


APPENDIX 


TO THE 

NOTES 

RELATIVE TO 

THE LATE TRANSACTIONS 

IN THE 


MARHATTA EMPIRE. 


> 






APPENDIX A. 


Notes relative to the History and Constitution of the Marhatta Empire , and to the prin¬ 
cipal Chieftains composing the Marhatta Confederacy. 


• RAN A BHEEM, 
Prince of Oudipoor 


Bhaugha Bhooslah, 
illegitimate Son of Rana 
Bheem. 


Mauloo Jee. 


Shaujee. 


Sevajee, Founder of the Mar¬ 
ietta Empire, born in 1628, 
died in 1680, aged fifty-twe 
years. 


r | 'HE Marhatta Empire was founded by Sevajee towards the middle of the seven- 
teenth century. Sevajee was the great grandson * of 
Bhaugha Bhooslah, an illegitimate son (by an obscure woman 
of a tribe called Bhooslah,) of Rana Bheem, a Rana of the 
Rajpoot state of Oudipoor, who was descended from the 
Rajahs of Chittore, the most ancient of the Hindoo Princes ; 

Bhaugha Bhooslah assumed the name of his mother’s tribe, 
which has since that period continued to be the family name 
of his descendants, the Rajahs of Sattarah and of Berar. 

Bhaugha Bhooslah being neglected and despised by his 
family on account of his low origin on the female side, retired 
in disgust from Oudipoor to the province of Candeish in the 
Dekan, where he entered into the service of a Zemindar 
named Rajah Ali Mohun, and became guardian to the Rajah’s 
son until he had attained the age of manhood; Bhaugha 
Bhooslah subsequently quitted Candeish, and purchased a tract of land near the city 
of Poonah, of which he became the Zemindar : in this situation he died, leaving 
issue Mauloo Jee, who entered into the service of a Marhatta Chief named Jaddoo 
Roy, under whom he acquired great rank and influence. 

Soon after this period Mauloo Jee’s son, Shah Jee, was married to Jee Jaee, the 
only daughter of Jaddoo Roy, without the consent of the latter : from this mar¬ 
riage was born, in 1628, Sevajee, the founder of the Marhatta Empire. A dispute 
ensued, in consequence of this marriage, between Jaddoo Roy and hi# son-in-law; 
and Shah Jee, being compelled by Jaddoo Roy to quit Ahmednuggur, (forming at 
that time the territory of Nizam Shah,) entered into the service of Ibrahim Adil 
Shah, King of Beejapoor, who gave him a Jagheer in the Carnatic, with the com¬ 
mand of io,ooo horse. 

In consequence of some dispute with his first wife (the daughter of Jaddoo Roy), 
Shah Jee separated from her, and married Toka Baee, by whom he had one son, 
Ekojee, afterwards King of Tanjore. Shah Jee was killed in 1667 by a fall from 
his horse in hunting at Badnore, where a splendid mausoleum was erected to his 
memory by his friend Rundowla Khan, Minister to the King of Beejapoor, whose 
intercession, on a former occasion, saved Shah Jee from being buried alive, which 
punishment he had been condemned to suffer by the King of Beejapoor. 

Shah Jee was succeeded by his son Sevajee, who disdaining the condition of a 
subjedl, revolted, and, availing himself of the convulsions which at that time dis¬ 
turbed the kingdom of Bejapoor, became independant. He died on the 5th of 
April 1680, leaving the inheritance of his domains to his son Sambajee. At the 
period of Sevajee’s death, his territory extended from near Surat, along the sea 

b coast, 


For an account 
of the Dviiaf- 
tiesof the Kings 
of Ahmednug¬ 
gur and Bee- 
japore, see 
Scott’s Trans- 
lation of Fe- 
rishta’s History 
of the Dekan. 


Sevajee, 1ft Ra¬ 
jah of Sattarah, 






74 


Sarabajce, 
2d Rajah. 


Sahojee, 
Sd Rajah. 


Ram Rajah, 
4 th Rajah. 


APPENDIX A. 

coast, to the vicinity of the Portuguese districts of Goa, and as far inland as the 
range of hills which terminate the Table Land, and form the eastern boundary of 
the Kokan. 

Sambajee, the second Rajah of Sattarah, being at Parnala when his father died, 
a faction endeavoured to secure the succession to Rajah Ram, a son of Sevajee by 
another wife. But Sambajee, supported by the greatest part of the troops, who 
had been the companions of his contests with the forces of the Emperor of Hindos- 
tan, established his sovereignty, and reigned until the end of June 1689, when he 
was barbarously murdered by order of the Emperor Aurungzebe. 

To Sambajee succeeded his son Sahojee, whose Minister (the Peishwah) Ballajee 
Bishwanaut, gained such an ascendancy over the mind of his master, as to per¬ 
suade Sahojee to delegate to him the exercise of all authority and power in the 
State; all orders and every detail of Government issued immediately from the 
Peishwah, who received from the Rajah the title of Mookh * Perdhaun, or Chief 
Civil Minister. This form of government has subsisted to the present period, and 
on the death of a Peishwah, his successor is invested by the Rajah of Sattarah with 
the ensigns of office. During the latter part of Sahojee’s reign, Sahojee shut him¬ 
self up in Sattarah, and his person and government were almost forgotten. Sahojee 
married a person named Tara Baee, but having no children by her, he adopted his 
brother Pursojee’s great grandson, Moodajee Booslah, whose disposition, however, 
was considered to be so tyrannical, that Sahojee was compelled to dismiss him ; and 
he therefore sent for Janojee, the elder brother of Moodajee, who was on his way 
to Sattarah, when Sahojee died in 1740, after a reign of fifty years. During this 
period, the Marhattas, after having overrun and plundered almost every part of 
Hindostan, excepting Bengal, extended their territories from the Western Sea to 
Orissa, and from Agra to the Carnatic, forming a tract of near one thousand miles 
long, by seven hundred wide, and including some of the richest and most fertile 
provinces of the peninsula of India. The capital of the Empire was established at 
Sattarah, a fortress situated about fifty miles south-east of Poonah, and near the 
18th degree of north latitude. The descendants of Sevajee have since been distin¬ 
guished by the title of the Rajahs of Sattarah. 

Sahogee was succeed¬ 
ed by his cousin. Ram 

Rajah, the fourth Rajah -p 

of Sattarah, and SOn of Sambajee, 2d Rajah 
Rajah Ram, who has al- t of Sa t tarah. 
ready been noticed, as a 


SEVAJEE, the Founder of the Mathatta Empire. 


who adopted Ram 
Rajah. 


competitor for power ji^satta^h^- 
with Sambajee, the son ried Tara Baee, 
of Sevajee. Ram Rajah 
was also the adopted son 
Establishment G f Sahojee’s widow Tara 
the Peish'wah° Baee. Ram Rajah being 
a very weak Prince, the 
Peishwah Bajee Rao, the 


2. PURSOJEE, 
Bukshi under his 
brother Sahojee, 
killed at Delhi. 

Vjmbaj ee, killed in 
Oude during his fa¬ 
ther’s life time. 


3. Kanojee, 
Sambajee, and 
Ranojee. 


Rajah Ram at¬ 
tempted to supplant 
hi s half brotherSAM- 
bajeb, but was de¬ 
feated; died at Gin- 
gee in the Carnatic. 


Ragojee Booslah, 
1st Rajah of Bcrar. 


Ram Rajah, 4th 
Rajah of Sattarah, 
died without issue. 


* The word Pundit is a designation exclusively confined to Bramins, and was an adjunct to the 
family name of the Peishwahs. The word Peishwah is Persian, and is synonimous with Mookh. 
The latter term alone is engraven on the PeisLwah’s seafi 


son 










APPENDIX A. 

son of Ballajee Bishwahnaut, already mentioned, usurped the whole power of his 
master. At that time Ragojee Bhooslah, the ancestor of the present Rajah of Berar, 
was the Bukshi, or Commander in Chief of the Forces, and as such held the province 
of Berar in Jagheer. When Bajee Rao usurped the authority of the Rajah of Satta- 
rah,Ragojee Bhooslah proceeded to Berar, and there established an independant 
government. It appears, however, that he continued to acknowledge the supremacy 
of the Rajah of Sattarah, and the authority of the office of Peishwah, as the civil 
executive authority of the State. 

This violent partition of the Empire by its principal Ministers encouraged the 
usurpation of others, so that in a few years the State, from an absolute monarchy 
(as established by Sevajee), became a mere confederacy of chiefs, the principal of 
whom are the Peishwah, the Rajah of Berar, and the families of Scindiah, Holkar, 
and the Guikwar. There are some Jagheerdars and Chieftains of inferior note, to 
the southward of Poonah, of whom an account will be exhibited at the conclusion 
of the Appendix. The family of Scindiah established themselves in Malwa and 
Candeish, and afterwards extended their conquests over a great part of the Rajpoot 
principalities, and of the northern parts of Hindustan* The largest part of Guzerat 
was seized by the Guikwar family, while the Holkar family established themselves 
in those parts of the province of Malwa which did not belong to the families of the 
Peishwah and of Scindiah. 

Although the chieftains enumerated in the preceding paragraph are independant 
of each other, they all acknowledge the office of Peishwah to be the legitimate exe¬ 
cutive authority of the Marhatta Empire, and admit the supremacy of the Rajah of 
Sattarah. Since the ascension of Bajee Rao (the first Peishwah), however, the 
Rajah of Sattarah has never been a party to any public acts or alliances ; and foreign 
States, finding the Peishwah in possession of the executive power and authority of 
the State, have, in all the transactions of the Marhatta state, treated him as the 
legitimate Head of the Empire. 

The descendants of Sevajee, however, are still treated with attention and respect. 
No Peishwah can enter upon the execution of his office without receiving a dress of 
honour from the Rajah of Sattarah. When the Peishwah takes the field in person, 
he must previously receive an audience of leave from the Rajah of Sattarah. The 
country in the vicinity of Sattarah enjoys an exemption from military depredations 
of all kinds; and whenever any chief enters this district, all the ensigns of power 
and command are laid aside, and the nagara, or great drum of the empire, ceases 
to beat. These marks of respect alone distinguish the condition of the nominal 
Sovereign of the Marhatta Empire from that of a prisoner of state. The Rajah of 
Sattarah has long been confined in the fortress of that name upon a contracted 
allowance. 

By the constitution thus established, the exclusive right of concluding treaties 
and engagements with foreign powers in the name of the Marhatta Empire, must 
be considered to be inherent in the supreme executive authority of the State ; and 
the Peishwah acting in the name, and under the ostensible sanction of the nominal 
Head of the Empire, has undoubtedly a right to conclude treaties which shall be 
obligatory upon*the subordinate chieftains and feudatories, without their con¬ 
currence. But these chieftains have acquired power by the weakness Of 1 the 
Peishwah’s Government, and are in fact become independant, although they con¬ 
tinue to acknowledge the Peishwah as the executive Minister of State. 

They possess no acknowledged right however to conclude separate engagements 

L 2 with 


TS 


76 APPENDIX A. 

with foreign states, unless the tacit permission to make conquests * should be 
thought to confer that right; but even in this case it must also be inferred, that they 
have not the right to conclude engagements affecting the Peishwah’s supremacy. 
They are bound to pay allegiance to the Peishwah, and are, to every intent, officers 
and subjects of the Marhatta State, of which the PeisHw'ah is the supreme executive 
authority. 

Under these circumstances, the least wffiich can be inferred is, that the Peishwah 
has a right to conclude engagements with a foreign state without consulting the 
feudatory chieftains, provided those engagements do not affect the separate rights 
and interests of those chieftains. If the constitution of the Marhatta Empire, as 
established by Bajee Rao, the first Peishwah, be referred to as the standard for 
deciding the question, the Peishwah’s rights may be considered even more extensive. 
On the other hand, in proportion as the feudatory chieftains disclaim the supremacy 
of the Peishwah, they have less right to interfere in any degree in the Peishwah’s 
concerns; and the Peishwah must be considered as an independant state, at liberty 
to contract with a foreign power any engagements which he may deem beneficial to 
his own interests. In both cases, the feudatory chieftains can have no pretence to 
interfere in his arrangements, or to controul his intercourse with foreign states. 

The situation of Berar however, with relation to the Peishwah, certainly differs 
from that of the other provinces comprehended in the Marhatta State. The 
province of Berar formed a part of the dominion of Sattarah under Ram Rajah. 
That province was then assigned to the Bukshi, or commander in chief of the forces, 
for the payment of the army. At that period of time Ragojee Bhooslah, the first 
Rajah of Berah, held the office of Bukshi; and it does not appear that he ever chose 
to consider himself as totally independant of the state of Sattarah. This was dictated 
partly by policy, and partly by a dread of the superior power 
of the Peishwah. Ragojee had pretensions (founded on his 
descent) to the state of Sattarah, after the death of Ram 
Rajah* who had no issue. The preservation of his nominal 
subordination to the state of Sattarah favoured the eventual 
accomplishment "of those pretensions, but the dread of the 
superior power of the Peishw r ah prevented their ultimate 
success. 

Under these circumstances, it cannot be supposed that the Rajah of Berar consi¬ 
dered himself to be subordinate to the Peishwah, although it was his interest to act 
with him on important occasions as a member of that empire, of which the Peishwah 
was the executive civil authority. On occasions of meeting between them, the 
Rajah of Berar was treated, in consequence of his descent, as a superior in rank; 
and, in the capacity of the first constituent member of the empire, claimed the right 
of sending to the Peishwah a dress of honour on his accession to office. 

The same system has continued until the present period. The Rajah of Berar still 
maintains his pretensions to be Rajah of Sattarah, and, a fortiori , to the office of 
Peishwah on the same grounds as the first Rajah of Berar. On these grounds, the 
Rajah of Berar also founds his pretensions to be consulted in the conclusion of an 
alliance between the Peishwah and any foreign state. 

The justice of these pretensions however has never been admitted. The Rajah of 

* When the province of Malwa was assigned to Holkar and Scindiahfor the payment of their troops, 
it was stipulated that of the conquests whten they might atchieve, one portion should belong to the 
Peishwah, and another portion to Holkar and Scindiah respectively. 


RAGOJEE BHOOSLAH, 
1st Rajah of Berah, 

* \ _ > 

I 

Moqdajee. 

V_ v 1_I 

I 

Ragojee, the present Ra¬ 
jah of Berar. 


Berar 




77 


APPENDIX A. 

Berar must be considered either as the commander in chief of the forces of the 
empire, or as an independant power. 

As commander of the forces, Ragojee Bhooslah, the first Rajah, could not claim 
the right to be consulted by his sovereign, the Rajah of Sattarah, on the conclusion 
of foreign alliances: and the Rajah of Sattarah had the power undoubtedly to con¬ 
clude such alliances without the consent of the commander in chief of his forces. 

If the question be not tried by the original constitution of the Marhatta empire, 

(namely that constitution under which the Rajah of Sattarah was the head of the 
empire, and Ragojee Bhooslah the commander in chief of the forces), it must be 
decided by the rights of long acknowledged and actual power; and under that view 
of the case, the Peishwah’s independance must be admitted equally with that of the 
Rajah of Berar. In either case, therefore, the right of the Peishwah to contract 
foreign alliances without the consent of the Rajah of Berar cannot be disputed. 

In concluding this discussion on the nature of the constitution of the Marhatta 
empire, it may be useful to exhibit some account of the powers who have been 
mentioned in the notes to which this paper forms an Appendix. 

ist. The Peishwah. The wisdom and policy of Bajee Rao, the first Peishwah, 
firmly established in his family the power which he had usurped; and accordingly, 
at his death no opposition was made to the succession to the office of Peishwah of his 
eldest son Ballajee Bajee Rao, who died in 1761, leaving three sons (Bishwas Rao, 
who was killed in the battle of Panniput in 1762,) Madhoo Rao, and Narain Rao. 

Madhoo Rao,the second son, succeeded to the Musnud of Poonah on his father’s death, 
and dying in November 1772, was succeeded by his brother Narain Rao, who, in 
August 1773, was assassinated by his paternal uncle Ragonaut Rao, better known by 
the name of Ragobah. A few months after this event, Narain Rao’s widow was 
delivered of a son, who was named Sevajee Madhoo Rao, and who ascended the 
Musnud, on which he continued until his death, which was occasioned, in October 
1795, by a fall from the terrace of his palace. 

On the death of the second Madhoo Rao, Chimnajee Appa, the younger son of 
Ragobah, was raised to the Musnud, but was afterwards deposed, and succeeded by 
his elder brother Bajee Rao, the present Peishwah, who is the eldest legitimate son of 
the late Ragobah. During the reign of the second Madhoo Rao, Bajee Rao, the Bajee Rao (re¬ 
present Peishwah, and his brother, were confined in the fort of Juneer, near Poonah. 

After a calamitous reign of six years, during which Bajee Rao, the present lice of Peish- 
Peishwah, was, in the first instance, deprived, by the violence and ambition of Dowlut W2h> 

Rao Scindiah, of the due exercise of his authority, and kept in a state of the utmost 
degradation and restraint, and afterwards deposed and compelled by Jeswunt Rao 
Holkar, on the 25th October, to abandon his capital city of Poonah, and to take 
refuge in the British territories; the Peishwah, by the treaty of Bassein, was restored 
to the full enjoyment of his rights and legitimate power on the foundation of the 
support of the British Government. The treaty of Bassein being exclusively of a 
defensive nature, imposes no restraint upon any state or power, which shall respect 
the rights and possessions of the British Government and its allies; nor can any 
right or power to interfere in the internal concerns of any of the Marhatta chieftains 
b<Tderived from the stipulations of that treaty, beyond the limits of the Peishwah’s 
legitimate authority, to maintain which, is equally the duty of his subjects, feudato¬ 
ries and allies. 

The result of these considerations, combined with an attentive observation of the 
facts and arguments stated in the notes to which this paper forms an appendix ; of 

the 


APPENDIX A. 

the conduct of the British Government towards the Peisliwah, towards the Nizam, 
and towards all its allies, demonstrates in the most satisfactory and incontrovertible 
manner, that in concluding the treaty of Bassein with the Peishwah, the views and 
intentions of the British Government have been just, amicable, and moderate ; that 
the real and legitimate power of the Peishwah is effectually secured by this alliance; 
and that, under the operation of his engagements with the British Government, the 
Peishwah may confidently expect to enjoy that tranquillity and Security, accompanied 
by respect and honour, which he has never experienced under the oppressive in- 
fluence of his own subjects, servants, or feudatory chieftains, and which he never could 
have attained by the aid of any other state or power. 

2d. Jeswunt Rao Holkar. 

Mulhar Rao Holkar, the founder of this family, was an officer in the service of the 
first Peishwah Bajee Rao, and was one of the earliest Marhatta adventurers in the 
expeditions to the northward. He received, about the year 1736, a portion of the 
province of Malwa in Jagheer; and died in 1766 at Mulhar Ghur, a small fortress in 
one of his Jagheers, situated about forty miles from Calpee. Mulhar Rao Holkar* 
was succeeded by his nephew Tuckojee Holkar, who died on the 15th August, 1797, 
leaving two legitimate sons, the eldest named Cashy Rao, and the younger Mulhar 
Rao; and two illegitimate -sons, Eithojee Holkar, and the present chieftain Jeswunt 
Rao Holkar. The capital of the Holkar territories in Malwa was established at Indore, 
a city about thirty miles south-east of Ougein. The revenues of the Holkar family, 
previous to the commencement of the late disturbances in the province of Malwa, 
were estimated to amount to eighty lacks of rupees, or about one million sterling. 

Some time previously to the death of Tuckojee Holkar, that chief obtained from 
the Peishwah a khelautf of investiture for his eldest son Cashy Rao Holkar, as legi¬ 
timate successor to the territorial possessions of the Holkar family. A Jagheer to 
the annual amount of ten lacks of rupees, was however settled on Tuckojee’s younger 
legitimate son Mulhar Rao, but no provision was made for the illegitimate children, 
Jeswunt Rao and Eithojee, who were left entirely dependant on Cashy Rao Holkar. 

Soon after the decease of Tuckojee Holkar, in 1797, disputes arose between Cashy 
Rao and Mulhar Rao, the latter claiming an equal division of his father’s territories 
with Cashy Rao, and both brothers repaired to the court of Poonah, for the purpose 
of referring their claims to the decision of his highness the Peishwah. 

On their arrival at Poonah, Dowlut Rao Scindiah, with a view of usurping the pos¬ 
sessions of the family, and, it is said, in consideration of a payment of six lacks of 
rupees, and of Cashy Rao’s renunciation of a claim on the late Madhajee Scindiah to 
the extent of sixty lacks of rupees, espoused the cause of Cashy Rao Holkar, and 
made a sudden and unexpected attack in the month of September 1797, on Mulhar 
Rao, whom he slew with most of his adherents. 

Jeswunt Rao and Eithojee Holkar had both attached themselves to the interest of 
Mulhar Rao, and were at Poonah at the period of Mulhar Rao’s death. Jeswunt 

* The ancestor of Mulhar Rao appears to have been, too obscure a person to have excited any en¬ 
quiries.. Mulhar Rao had one son, named iChundeh Rao, who was killed about the year I75t, at 
Deeg, in a battle against the Jat Chief Soorooj Mul. Khundeh Rao had attained the twenty-eighth 
year of his age, and had no issue, but left a widow named Aheela Baee, who died about five years ago, 
at Cholea Meyhasur, on the north bank of the Nerbudda. She had a Jagheer allotted to her support, 
yielding an annual revenue of fifteen lacks of rupees. 

t Khelautis a dress of honour, conferred by a superior on an inferior, on occasions of accession to 
office, or as a mark of honour. 

Rao 


APPENDIX A. 

Rao immediately fled to Nagpore, where he remained for some time : Eithojee fled 
to Colapoor, where he was taken while in the commission of hostilities, sent to 
Poonah, and put to death. 

The person of Jeswunt Rao Holkar, at the instance of Dowlut Rao Scindiah, was 
also secured by the Rajah of Berar, but Jeswunt Rao having found means to effect 
hip escape from Nagpore, fled to Meyha'sur on the Nerbudda, and assembled forces 
with which he gained several advantages against the troops of Dowlut Rao Scindiah, 
who remained at Poonah for the purpose of carrying into execution his violent 
and ambitious schemes against the Peish wall’s authority and government. 

Dowlut Rao Scindiah however seized the person of Khundeh Rao, the infant and 
posthumous son of Mulhar Rao, (born a short time after Mulhar Rao’s death, in 
September 1797,) and pretended to govern the possessions of the Holkar family in 
the name of Cashy Rao, whom Scindiah (since the death of Mulhar Rao) had kept 
in a state of dependance. It is probable however that Scindiah’s principal motive in 
securing the person of Khundeh Rao Holkar, was to obtain the entire controul 
of the affairs of the Holkar family, to administer the government of their possessions 
in the name of the family, but to appropriate the revenues to his own use. 

Both Cashy Rao and Jeswunt Rao soon became sensible of the view's of Scindiah, 
and were so deeply impressed with the necessity of preventing their accomplishment, 
that they agreed to reconcile their differences, as the only means-rff keeping the 
Holkar possessions in the family. 

A long contest ensued between Dowlut Rao Scindiah and Jeswunt Rao Holkar, 
and continued until the commencement of the year 1802, when Holkar appears to 
have determined to change his plan of hostilities, and to make Poonah the theatre 
of his operations. Cashy Rao Holkar had at this period of time resolved to maintain 
a strict neutrality in the disputes between Jeswunt Rao and Scindiah, and Jeswunt 
Rao now asserted that Khundeh Rao (the son of Mulhar Rao) was the legitimate 
head of the Holkar family. Jeswunt Rao accordingly insisted that Khundeh Rao 
should be released from confinement, and acknowledged as the head of the family 
by Scindiah, and that the territory of the Holkar family should be committed *to 
Jeswunt Rao’s management, as minister to his nephew Khundeh Rao. 

Holkar’s ostensible motive in proceeding to Poonah, was to assert the rights of 
his nephew, and to obtain from the Peishw r ah, as legitimate head of the empire, a de¬ 
cision in his favour. But the real views of Holkar appear to have been directed to 
a more important object. The weakness of the Peishwahs government, and the 
entire annihilation of his authority by Scindiah, had left the Peishw r ah no means of 
opposing Holkar, or of compelling Scindiah to surrender the person of Khundeh 
Rao into the hands of Holkar ; and Holkar naturally concluded, that the most 
severe blow which he could strike against Scindiah’s power, was to destroy 
Scindiah’s ascendancy at Poonah, and to convert the authority of the Peishwah’s 
name into an useful instrument for his own aggrandizement. 

With these views, towards the middle of the year 1802, Jeswunt Rao Holkar 
proceeded with a large force towards Poonah. Scindiah had been compelled (in the 
month of December 1800, by Holkar’s hostile movements,) to quit Poonah for the 
protection of his possessions in Malwa, and was at Ougein when Holkar commenced 
his march towards Poonah. Being sensible, however, of the danger to which he was 
exposed, by Holkar’s movement towards Poonah, Scindiah detached a force under 
the command of Suddasheo Bhow, which reached the vicinity of Poonah at the close 
of the month of September, and afterwards effected a junction with the troops be¬ 
longing 


So 


APPENDIX A. 

longing to the Peishwah, A general action ensued on the 25th October, 1802, in 
which Suddasheo Bhow was entirely defeated, and Jeswunt Rao Holkar became 
master of the city of Poonah, arid of the Peishwah’s government. Jeswunt Rao 
Holkar having committed no act of hostility against the British Government, has 
hitherto been considered as a friend. In the course of the late transactions, Holkar 
lias more than once solicited the advice and assistance of the British Government, 
and expressly, intimated a wish for the mediation of the British Resident at the court 
of Poonah for the purpose of effecting an accommodation with the Peishwah, and 
of adjusting his demands on Dowiut Rao Scindiah. Under instructions from the 
Governor General, Colonel Close, the Resident, actually endeavoured to persuade 
the Peishwah to offer such concessions to Holkar as might induce that chieftain to 
compromise the subsisting differences; but the Peishwah has hitherto manifested an 
insuperable aversion to offer any concession to Holkar, whom he considers to be a 
rebel against the legitimate authority of the sovereign executive power of the Mar- 
hat ta empire. 

If any argument is required to confirm the policy ©f the late engagements which 
were concluded at Bassein between the Peishwah and the British Government, it 
may be found in a consideration of the actual state of Holkar’s power, and of the 
territories of the Peishwah, at the period when the Governor General interposed 
the power of the British Government for the recovery of the Peishwah’s just au¬ 
thority, and for the security against the dangers of contiguous anarchy and confu¬ 
sion, of the dominions of the Company, and of its allies and dependants, particu¬ 
larly those of the Nizam and the Rajah of Mysore. 

After the power of the Peishwah had been annihilated by the success of Holkar 
against the united arms of the Peishwah a.nd Dowiut Rao Scindiah, it could not be 
expected that his highness would have been restored to the efficient exercise of his 
authority, either by Jeswunt Rao Holkar, or by Dowiut Rao Scindiah. 

The design of Holkar to engross the whole power and authority of the state of 
Poonah, was demonstrated by his actual usurpation, and by the project which he 
formed, and endeavoured to accomplish, of placing on the Musnud of Poonah a 
new Peishwah, or of restoring Bajee Rao to the Musnud, under circumstances o 1 
restraint, which would have secured to Holkar the whole military power and civil 
authority of the state. It cannot be doubted that motives of ambition and of inve¬ 
terate enmity against Dowiut Rao Scindiah, would, in that event, have induced 
Juswunt Rao Holkar to direct his arms against the possessions of Dowiut Rao Scin¬ 
diah; and the accession of military power and resources, which Holkar would have 
acquired by the permanent establishment of his authority in the state of Poonah, 
would probably have enabled him to prosecute his view's of conquest with success. 

If, on the other hand, the arms of Dowiut Rao Scindiah had ultimately trium¬ 
phed over those of Holkar, the power and resources of the state of Poonah, toge¬ 
ther with those of Holkar, would have been added to those of Scindiah; and a state 
would have been formed in the hands of Scindia, comprehending nearly the whole 
Marhatta dominion (with the exception of Berar), and possessing the nominal au¬ 
thority of the Peishwah, and of the Moghul, with a considerable revenue, abundant 
military resources, a powerful artillery, and a numerous army, under the discipline 
and command of French officers. • 

No ultimate issue of the distractions at that time existing in the Marhatta empire, 
could therefore reasonably Te supposed, which would not have consolidated under 
one head, a degree of pow r er and dominion dangerous to the British Government, 

to 


APPENDIX A. 8l 

to the extent in which the balance of contending interests in the Marhatta empire 
should have been disturbed, and in proportion to the riieans which a power so con¬ 
solidated would possess, of eventually co operating with the government of France 
in hostile designs against the British empire in India. 

The convulsions in the Marhatta state might possibly have continued for some 
time, and might have afforded a temporary security to the British Government 
against any hostile designs on the part of the Marhattas, either singly or united 
with an European power. But the effects of such confusion must speedily have 
extended to the contiguous dominions of our ally the Nizam, and ultimately to 
those of the Company, and would have compelled the British Government to. 
engage in the contest. 

The establishment of Holkar’s power at Poonah would probably have occasioned 
demands on the part of that chieftain upon his Highness the Nizam; but, even 
under a contrary supposition, it is demonstrable from the state of the country, that 
Holkar could not long have fnaintained an army in the Dekan, without invading 
the dominions either of the Nizam or of the Company. 

The territory around Poonah, to a considerable extent, having been entirely deso¬ 
lated by the troops of Holkar, that chieftain would have been compelled to invade 
the territory of the Nizam,' or to penetrate into the country situated to the south¬ 
ward of the river Kistna, for the subsistence of his numerous troops and followers. 

The adoption .of the latter alternative would have retarded, for some time, the 
predatory incursions of Holkar’s troops into the territory of the Nizim or of the 
Company ; but when the immediate resources of the Peishwah’s southern provinces 
should have been exhausted, Holkar would have been compelled to draw the means 
of subsistence for his troops from the plunder of the Company’s contiguous territo¬ 
ries, on the resources of which we must principally have depended for the supply 
of our troops in the contest, which that irruption would have rendered inevitable. 

If, therefore, the British Government had not adopted measures for the restoration 
of the Peishwah’s authority, either the Company’s territories, or those of our ally 
the Nizam, would have been exposed to all the evils of war, while neither the Com¬ 
pany nor the Nizam under such circumstances, could have possessed the means, 
which both now command, of averting the war from their own dominions, and of 
accelerating its prosperous conclusion by a vigorous system of attack upon the 
enemy. 

The restoration of the Peishwah, therefore, under the protection of the British 
power, was a measure indispensably requisite for the defence, not only of the terri¬ 
tories of our allies, but of our own possessions bordering the Marhatta dominions 
in the peninsula of India. 

3d. Dowlut Rao Scindiah. 

Ranojee Scindiah, the founder of this family, was born at Putteelee near Poonah, 
and served first under a chief named Bajee Rao, who commanded the body guard 
of Bajee Rao, the first Peishwah, and grandfather to the present Peishwah. From 
this inferior station, he gradually rose in the service of Bajee Rao the Peishwah, and 
afterwards accompanied him in the expedition, which was undertaken at the close 
of the reign of Rajah Sahoojee againft the province of Malwa. This province was 
afterwards divided into three parts; of which the first was allotted to Bajee Rao, 
the Peishwah, the second to the Rajah of Sattarah, the third to the family of Hol¬ 
kar. As a reward for the services which Ranojee Scindiah rendered in the expedi- 

M ' tion 


APPENDIX A. 

tion against Malwa, Bajee Rao granted a considerable portion of the shares belong¬ 
ing to himself and to the Rajah of Sattarah, to Ranojee Scindiah, which grant was 
afterwards confirmed in Jagheer to his descendants, by the Rajah of Sattarah. On 
the death of Ranojee Scindiah, Madhajee Scindiah, his fifth son, succeeded to the 
management of his patrimonial inheritance, of which Ougein was the capital, and 
by a train of successful operations, was enabled to appropriate to himself a conside¬ 
rable pirt of the province of Malwa, belonging to the government of Poonah, as, 
well as to extend his domains over a great part of Hindostan, and of the Rajpoot 
states j and to obtain possession of the person and nominal authority of the Great 
Moghul, of whom he was the ostensible minister. 

Madhajee Scindiah died on the 12th February 1794, without male issue, and was 
succeeded on the 3d of March following, by his nephew and adopted son, Dowlut 
Rao Scindiah, whose violence, rapacity, and lawless ambition, have been the main 
causes of the present war with the confederate Marhatta chieftains. 

4th. Ragojee Bhooslah. 

The ancestor of the present Rajah of Berar, the first Ragojee Bhooslah, died in 
1749, and transmitted his government * to his son Janojee, who dying in 1772, 
left his inheritance to the present Rajah, the son of Janojee’s younger brother Mood- 
hajee Bhooslah. This occasioned a contention between Janojee’s brothers Sabajee 
and Moodhajee. The former claimed the government in right of priority of birth, 
and the latter as father and guardian of the adopted child. They were accordingly 
engaged in hostility until the death of Sabajee, who was killed in an engagement 
with his brother on the 27th January 1775. From that period the government of 
Berar was holden by Moodhajee Bhooslah f, who died at an advanced age on the 


* RAGOJEE BHOOSLAH, the First Rajah of Berar. 


Moodhajee, 
third Rajah of 
Berar. 


Janojee, se¬ 
cond Rajah, 
died without 
issue, and a- 
dopted Rago¬ 
jee, the present 
Rajah. 


Sabajee, killed 
by his brother 
Moodhajee, on 
2~th January 
1775 . 


Ragojee, the 
present Rajah. 

Pursojee, nam¬ 
ed Balia 
Rajah, son 
and heir to 
Ragojee. 


1 

Khundojee, or 
Chinnea Ba¬ 
boo, died 
without issue 
about the year 
1795, at Nag- 
poor. 


Munnojee, or 
Venkajee 
Bhooslah, the 
present Sou- 
bahdarof Rut- 
tunpoor, has 
two sons, one 
of whom is 
called Rago¬ 
jee, after his 
uncle the pre¬ 
sent Rajah. 


Bembajee, 
who became 
Soubahdar of 
Ruttunpoor 
and Sumbul- 
poor, about 
the year 1768, 
and died about' 
1788 . 


•f It appears, however, that Moodhajee Bhooslah, in all sta!e papers, joined his son’s name to his 
own; and though he did not allow him to interfere in business, yet he treated the youth as the heir 
apparent; Moodhajee Bhooslah was therefore a regent by right during his son’s minority, and proba¬ 
bly by sufferance afterwards. Ragojee Bhooslah is about forty-seven years of age, and has one son, 
Pursojee Bhooslah, twenty-seven years old. 

19th 

* 







APPENDIX A. 

19th May 1788, -and was succeeded by his son Ragojee Bhooslah, the present Rajah 
of Berar. 

The views which this chieftain and Dowlut Rao Scindiah are known to have 
entertained with respect to the supreme authority of the Marhatta state, afford the 
means of forming a correct judgment of the motives which may have rendered those 
chieftains desirous of subverting the treaty of Bassein, although they admitted that 
treaty to be equitable in its general principle, and to furnish additional security for 
the just rights of the feudatory chieftains of the Marhatta empire, and especially of 
their own. 

The whole course of Dowlut Ra^ Scindiah’s proceedings since his accession to the 
dominions of his uncle Madhajee Scindiah, has manifested a systematic design of 
establishing an ascendancy in the Marhatta state upon the ruins of the Peishwah’s 
authority. 

The government and person of the Peishwah have long been placed under a 
degrading subjection to the oppressive control and unwarrantable usurpation of 
Dowlut Rao Scindiah, who had remained with a numerous army in the vicinity of 
the Peishwah’s capital for a considerable period of time. 

The usurpation of Scindiah existed in full force at the commencement of the last 
war, between the Company and Tippoo Sultaun, and the undue influence of Scindiah 
in the Marhatta empire in that crisis, not only deprived the British Government of 
every benefit from the nominal alliance of the Peishwah, at the commencement, and 
during the progress of the war, but afforded positive encouragement to the cause of 
Tippoo Sultaun, and menaced the Nizam’s dominions previously to the expulsion 
of the French from Hyderabad in October 1798, and subsequently in 1799, while 
the Nizam’s contingent was actually employed with the British army in the common 
cause of the triple alliance against Tippoo Sultaun. 

At that time Scindiah was restrained from the actual invasion of the Nizam’s 
dominions, by the direct interposition of the British Government. His influence, 
however, and the terror of his violence and power, continued to rule the court of 
Poonah, and to alarm the court of Hyderabad, until the exigency of his affairs in 
the north of Hindostan, occasioned principally by the successful progress of Jeswunt 
Rao Holkar’s arms, compelled Dowlut Rao Scindiah to retire from Poonah in the 
year 1800, for the protection of his own territories. 

The complete establishment of Holkar’s authority at Poonah, by the defeat of 
Scindiah’s troops in October 1802, required the utmost exertion of Scindiah’s power 
against that active and powerful enemy. 

Had Scindiah succeeded in subverting the power of Holkar, it cannot be doubted 
that he would have taken advantage of that success, for the complete establishment 
of his own undue authority in the state of Poonah; he would probably have re-in¬ 
stated the Peishwah Bajee Rao in his government, or would have raised another to 
the Musnud, to be the pageant of his own power ; or would have usurped the su¬ 
preme ministerial authority in his own name, if the disposition of the other chief¬ 
tains of the Marhatta empire should have encouraged an expectation of their acqui¬ 
escence in that ambitious project. 

The uniform tenor of Scindiah’s conduct, the invariable principles of Asiatic 
policy, and the personal character, habits, and disposition of Dowlut Rao Scindiah, 
preclude the supposition that he would have abandoned the absolute power which 
he would have acquired by the subversion of Holkar’s usurpation, and would have 

M, 2 adopted 


8 4 


APPENDIX A. 

adopted the liberal policy of restoring the exiled Peishwah to the exercise of the 
established executive authority of the empire. 

In the moment of alarm, which succeeded the signal success of Jeswunt Rao 
Holkar, Dowlut Rao Scindiah solicited the co-operation of the British Government, 
under the pretext of restoring the Peishwah’s authority. He probably expected, 
that the aid of a detachment of British troops would have ensured his success against 
Holkar, without controlling his project of restoring his own undue ascendancy at 
Poonah on a more secure and extensive basis. It now appears that the active and 
powerful exertions employed by the British Government at the express solicitation 
of the Peishwah for his Highness’s complete re r oration to the Musnud of Poonah, 
were neither desired nor expected by Dowlut Rao Scindiah. The actual restoration 
of the Peishwah to the government of Poonah, under the exclusive protection of the 
British power,and the conclusion of engagements, calculated to secure to his Highness 
the due exercise of his legitimate authority on a permanent foundation, deprived 
Dowlut Rao Scindiah of every hope of accomplishing the objects of his ambition, 
injustice, and rapacity, so long as the alliance should be successfully maintained.'’ 

This statement of facts sufficiently explains the anxiety of Dowlut Rao Scindiah 
to effect the subversion of an arrangement, the justice and equity of which, he was 
compelled to acknowledge. 

The motives which must be supposed to have influenced the Rajah of Berar in 
combining his power with that of Dowlut Rao Scindiah, for the subversion of the 
alliance concluded between the British Government and the Peishwah, were mani¬ 
festly similar to those which actuated the conduct of Dowlut Rao Scindiah. 

The Rajah of Berar has always maintained pretensions to the supreme authority 
in the Marhatta empire, founded on his affinity to the reigning Rajah of Sattarah, 
and in the course of a conference with the native secretary of the Resident with 
Dowlut Rao Scindiah on the 14th of June 1803, distinctly avowed those pretensions. 

Convinced that the permanency of the defensive alliance concluded between the 
British Government and the Peishwah, would preclude all future opportunity of 
accomplishing the object of his ambition, the Rajah of Berar appears to have been 
equally concerned with Dowlut Rao Scindiah in the subversion of that alliance. 

Although the views ascribed to those chieftains, were manifestly incompatible 
with the accomplishment of their respective designs, the removal of an obstacle which 
would effectually preclude the success of either chieftain, in obtaining an ascendancy 
at Poonah, constituted an object of common interest to both. It appears also to be 
probable, that those chieftains, sensible that the combination of their power afforded 
the only prospect of subverting the alliance concluded between the British Govern¬ 
ment and the Peishwah, agreed to compromise their respective and contradictory 
projects, by an ai-rangement for the partition of the whole power and dominion of 
the Marhatta state. 

But whatever may have been the specific objects of Scindiah and the Rajah of 
Berar, the operation of the treaty of Bassein was evidently calculated to preclude the 
accomplishment of any ambitious projects on the part of those chieftains, and to 
confine their pow r er and authority within the just limits of their respective domi¬ 
nions. 

Under this view of the subject, a sufficient cause will be discovered of the hostile 
conduct of those chieftains, although no just ground of complaint should even have 
been alledged by them against the British Government, or any design imputed to us 

in 


APPENDIX A. 

in any degree injurious to the security of the acknowledged rights and independance 
^f-Dowlut Rao Scindiah, or of the Rajah of Eerar. 


Southern fagheerdars of the Marhatta Empire. 

The subordinate chieftains occupying territory to the south of Poonah, may be The account 0 f 
divided into two classes: first, the Rajahs and hereditary Jagheerdars ; and second, 
officers of the government of Poonah who command troops or forts. compiled from 

The principal chieftains of the first class are, communicated 

1. The Rajah of Colapore, who is of the same family as the Rajah of Sattarah. 

Although this chieftain, therefore, may have submitted to the power of the Peish- dentin Mysore! 
wah, it would be an inversion of the principles on which the authority of the 
Peishwah rests, to suppose that the Peishwah could demand personal allegiance 

from a branch of the family of which he is the ostensible minister. On this account 
the Peishwah addresses the Rajah of Cojapore as a superior, and treats him as such 
on all occasions of form or public ceremony. The Rajah maintains 1500 horse, and 
300} peons, and is stated to enjoy a revenue of between twenty and twenty-five 
lacks of rupees. 

2. The Putwurdun family, who are Cokan Bramins. Gopaul Hurry, the father 
of the late Purseram Bhow, left seven sons, who are all deceased, and of whom the 
four eldest (namely, Gopaul Rao, Purseram Bhow, Ragonaut Rao, and Pandrung 
Rao,) left issue. The property and jagheers of the Putwurdun family are now di¬ 
vided between the sons of these four chiefs, who are, first, Balajee Gopaul Rao, 
the son of the second Gopaul Rao. As the senior branch of the family, Ballajee 
Gopaul Rao possesses Meritch and the neighbouring districts, yielding a revenue of 
about four lacks of rupees; he maintains a force of about two hundred horse and 
one thousand five hundred foot. Second, Appah Sahib, the son of Purseram Bhow, 
resides at Jumcondah, one of his jagheers, and enjoys a revenue of about four lacks 
of rupees ; he maintains a fixed establishment of five hundred horse and one 
thousand foot, and has occasionally hired other troops for the purpose of ravaging 
the country of the- Rajah of Colapore, with whom he has been at war since the 
death of his father Purseram Bhow, who was killed in 1799, in an engagement 
with the Rajah near the town of Colapore. Third, Trimbuclc Rao Ragonaut Rao 
resides at Karandwar, the chief town of his jagheer, which yields an annual revenue 
of about two lacks of rupees. His quota is three hundred horse ; but he also has 
enlisted, at different times, troops to assist his cousin Appah Sahib against the 
Rajah of Colapore. Fourth, Chintamenee Rao Pandrung, son of Pandrung Rao, 
has a jagheer yielding four and half lacks of rupees, and resides at Hereepoor ; he 
maintains a fixed establishment of seven hundred cavalry, and fouf hundred horse, 
and lately encreased his cavalry for the purpose of plundering the country of Cola¬ 
pore. 

3. The Rastia family, who are also Cokan Bramins, and have long possessed 
power and reputation in the state of Poonah. Anund Rao, the father of the present 
chiefs of the family, left five sons, and derived great influence from his connexion 
with Nana Furnavese, (principal minister under the Peishwah Madhoo Rao the 
second of the Marhatta empire for near twenty-five years,) who married one of 

Anund 




APPENDIX A. 

Anund Rao’s daughters. The power of the Rastla family has, since the death of 
Anund Rao, been united in the person of his eldest son, Madhoo Rao Rastia, to, 
whom all the other sons of Anund Rao pay implicit obedience. The Putwurdun 
and Rastia families are connected by marriage; they have several times been on 
bad terms since the death of the late Peishwah Madhoo Rao in 1795, but are now 
friends. Madhoo Rao collects a revenue of about twenty lacks of rupees, and 
resides at Badamee; he maintains a force of four thousand horse, and four thousand 
peons, and lately hired an additional force of plundering horse, whom he employed 
against the Rajah of Sholapore, with whom he constantly carries on a predatory 
warfare. 

4. Kishen Rao Appah Dasheo, Jagheerdar of Nepaunee, has a small 'revenue, and 
maintains only three hundred horse and four hundred peons : he is at variance with 
the Rajah of Colapore. 

5. Malajee Gooparah, who holds in jagheer the towns and districts of Tumba, 
Indie, and Almil, from which he derives a revenue of one lack of rupees ; he main¬ 
tains six hundred horse, for which he is allowed pay by government. 

6. Purseram Pundit is a chief of some consequence; he possesses to the 
southward of Poonah, Bijapoor Bagawarah, and some land in the Cokan : his 
revenue is estimated at ten'lacks of rupees, and he maintains a force of three 
thousand horse. 

7. Pandrung Bauboo Rao possesses in jagheer the town and district of Bara- 
muttee, and some adjacent villages, from which he derives a revenue sufficient to 
maintain one thousand horse. 

8. Jaun Rao Nemalkur, Jagheerdar of Puttun, a town near Panderpoor, on the 
banks of the Beemah, maintains one thousand and five hundred horse. 

9. Venketerow, Jagheerdar of Nurgoond and Ramdroog, has a revenue of one 
lack and twenty-five thousand rupees, and maintains five hundred peons to garrison 
his forts: he has obtained some consequence by the marriage of his daughter to the 
youngest son of the late Purseram Bhow, and of his son to the sister of Baupoo 
Ghoklah ; and the latter chief, in consequence of this connexion, leaves his family 
and property in Nurgoond, whenever he is engaged on a distant expedition. 

10. Sedasheva Pundit possesses in jagheer the fort and district of Belgham, which 
yields a revenue of about forty thousand rupees: he maintains a force of one thou¬ 
sand horse and two thousand peons, which is supported by the revenue of his 
jagheers to the northward of Poonah. 

1 ]. Dowlut Rao Goorparah, the brother of the famous Morari* Rao of Ghooty, 
is Jagheerdar of the town and district of Gujinderghur, which has long been in his 
family. It was taken by Tippoo Sultaun in 1786, but recovered in 1792, and re¬ 
stored to this family, who are highly respedted among the Marhattas, notwithstand¬ 
ing they have lost that power which they formerly possessed. Dowlut Rao 
Goorparah has a revenue of about three lacks of rupees, and maintains a force of 
three hundred horse and three hundred peons, which form the garrison of the fort 
of Gujinderghur. 

12. Malaserja Dasheo, the Rajah of Khytore, possesses the country of Khytore, 
which yields a revenue of four lacks of rupees: he maintains a force of one thou- 

* A person of this family arrived in Major-General Wellesley’s camp on the 11th November, for 
the purpose of negotiating the terms of peace on the part of Dowlut Rao Scindiah.— Vide Official 
Gazette in appendix D. 


sand 


APPENDIX A. 

sand horse and four thousand peons, and is bound to pay an annual peishcush or 
tribute to the Peishwah, of sixty or seventy thousand rupees. 

The Chiefs of the second class are officers of government, commanding troops 
and garrisons. 

1. Bapoo Ghoklan, who is the son of Dhondiah Punt Ghoklah, aCokan Bramin, 
and commander of one hundred horse of the Pagah or stable horse of government, 
which accompanied Purseram Bhow to Seringapatam in 1792. Bapoo Ghoklah 
commands a force of two thousand horse, besides pindaries, of whom he has at least 
one thousand. He has also one thousand infantry, with two or three guns. The 
only permanent resources which Bapoo Ghoklah has for paying this force, are the 
revenues of the Guduck and Nuwulgund districts, which his father seized, and 
which produce near five lacks of rupees per annum. He, however, derives conside¬ 
rable resources from the plunder of the country in the vicinity of his districts. 

2. Gunput Rao Paunseh, commander of the artillery, is an old and distinguished 
officer of the government of Poonah, and enjoys the districts of Matcovee and Hoon- 
goond (yielding one lack of rupees per annum) as a personal jagheer. Gunput Rao 
has also the management of Rannee Bednore and Hungul, which are the personal 
Jagheers of Rapram Choudry, (an officer in the service of the Peishwah,) and which 
produce an annual revenue of about one lack and twenty-five thousand rupees. 

3. Bapoojee Wettel, who attended the Peishwah to Bassein, and commands five 
hundred horse. 

4. Bappoo Wettel Seo Deo commands six hundred horse; he is not a native of 
the southern provinces of the Poonah state, but entered the service at the same time 
as Gunput Rao Paqnseh. 

5. Ball Kishen Gungadur commands five hundred horse, and entered the service 
of the Peishwah at the same time with Gunput Rao Paunseh and Seo Deo. 

6. Bapoojee Rao Scindiah, Killadar of Darwar, was placed in charge of that for¬ 
tress, in the year 1794, by the late Peishwah: he maintains a garrison of eight hun¬ 
dred peons and one hundred and twenty horse; for the payment of which, and 
other expenses of the fort, he is allowed the districts of Butgerah and Mardagy, 
which yield a revenue of one lack and twenty thousand rupees per annum. 

Bapoojee Scindiah lately increased his troops to the number of two thousand horse 
and three thousand peons, to make war on the Rajah of Khytore, who has attacked 
the districts committed to his management. 

7. The town and districts of Anagherree and Purs.aghur belong to Amrut Rao, 
(adopted son of the late Ragobah, father of the present Peishwah,) to whom they 
were given by the present Peishwah, Bajee Rao, on his ascending the Musnud of 
Poonah. They produce a revalue of fifty thousand rupees per annum, and are ma¬ 
naged for Amrut Rao by a person named Anund Rao Lullee. 

In addition to the chieftains and jagheerdars already enumerated, the Pattan 
family, who so long possessed the extensive province of Savanore, (which consisted 
of twenty-two talooks, or districts, and includes the greatest part of the territory 
belonging to the Marhattas south of the Kistnah,) require to be particularly noticed. 

Mujud Khan, the grandfather of the present Nawaub of Savanore, was attacked, 
in the year 1756, by the combined forces of the Peishwah and Salabut Jung, the 
Soubahdar of the Dekan, and was compelled to purchase a peace by the surrender 
of eleven talooks (one half of his possessions) to his enemies. He died soon after 

this 



88 APPENDIX A. 

this event, and left his country to his son Hakeem Khan, who contracted an inti¬ 
mate alliance with Hyder Ally Khan, which was afterwards cemented by several 
intermarriages. Hyder Ally supported Hakeem Khan so effectually against the 
Marhattas, that Hakeem Khan recovered almost all the talooks which he had lost, 
and continued in a state of prosperity during the life of Hyder. 

The death of the latter prince in 1782 occasioned the ruin of the family of Sava- 
nore: they were attacked and expelled from their country by Tippoo Sultaun, 
whom they had justly provoked by joining the Marhattas. Hakeem Khan, who 
had fled towards Poonah, did not long survive his misfortunes. He left several 
sons; the eldest, Abdul Kheir Khan, resided at Seringapatam, where.he had married 
the daughter of Hyder Ally Khan. On the conclusion of the peace of 1792, Sava- 
nore came into the possession of the Peishwah, who provided for Hussain Khan, the 
second son of Hakeem Khan, by giving him in jagheer the town and district of 
Savanore, producing about 50,000 rupees per annum. 

Tippoo Sultaun being apprized of this arrangement, permitted Abdul Kheir Khan 
to proceed from Seringapatam, for the purpose of claiming his patrimony. On 
reaching Savanore, Kheir Khan’s younger brother (Hussain Khan) refused to admit 
his right; Kheir Khan therefore went to Poonah, and obtained from the minifter 
Nana Furnavese, a decision in his favour, as eldest son of Hakeem Khan. Nana 
Furnavese granted him a sunnud to take possession of Savanore, to which he directed 
Purseram Bhow to enforce obedience. 

When the rebel Dh'oondiah Waugh, in i8co, entered Savanore, Abdul Kheir 
10 thSeptember Khan placed himself under the protection of the British army; after the death of 
isoo. Dhoondiah, General Wellesley made an arrangement to secure to Kheir Khan the 

receipt of the revenues of his Jagheer; but the distracted state of the province of 
Savanore, since that period, not only defeated Major General Wellesley’s arrange¬ 
ment, but compelled Kheir Khan to retire to Soondah, where he began to raise 
troops. Being prevented from completing his levies by General Wellesley, he has 
since returned to Savanore, where he now resides with his whole family. 

Few of the actual Jagheerdars have any legal hereditary right to their present 
possessions, which have in general been granted to their ancestors for military ser¬ 
vice. The Peishwah’s government, however, has for some years been too weak to 
attempt the resumption of the conditions of service on which they were originally 
made; and the changes of fortune which have befallen the different Jagheerdars, 
have been occasioned more by their disputes with each other, than by any exertion 
of authority on the part of the government of Poonah, of which they are the nomi¬ 
nal servants. 

The officers of government, who have been intrusted with the command of troops 
and garrisons, have been almost invariably induced by the weakness of the govern¬ 
ment of Poonah, by the convulsions which have so long disturbed the Marhatta 
empire, and by the example of others, to endeavour to render their authority per¬ 
manent, and, in some cases, hereditary in their own family. The accomplishment 
of this object has been facilitated by the manner in which they are paid by the go¬ 
vernment of Poonah for their services, which is always done by orders upon the 
revenues of the countries in which they are employed. This system gradually leads 
to the complete establishment of their personal authority, and the subversion of that 
of the Peishwah. 

It is also customary to assign the revenues of a district for a stated period to such 

Jagheerdars 


APPENDIX A. 

jagheerdars as may have incurred an expense in the service of the Peishwah, beyond 
the produce of their jagheers, and such temporary grants are often permanently 
annexed to their former possessions. 

The temporary allotment of a country to a jaghcerdar, or the assignment of reve¬ 
nue to an officer of government for the payment of his troops, usually terminates 
in the independant establishment of the jagheerdar, or officer in the assigned country, 
or in a ruinous contest for the recovery of the rights of the state. This system makes 
every province in the Marhatta empire a scene of petty warfare, and has enabled 
subjects of the state to assume rights to which they have no other claim than that 
of usurpation and violence. 

From this state of weakness and inefficiency, the government of Poonah may 
confidently expect to be relieved by the operation of the treaty of Bassein, which, 
at the same time that it entitles the Peishwah to the whole exertion of the British 
power in the event of any emergency which may require the aid of the Company 
for the external defence and protection of his government and possessions, is calcu¬ 
lated to enforce a due submission to his authority within his immediate dominions, 
to preserve his territories from internal anarchy, and to promote the happiness and 
tranquillity of his subjects, and the general prosperity of his country. 









N 





APPENDIX 




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C ) 


APPENDIX C. 


TREATY OF BASSEIN. 

*1 TREATY of perpetual and general defensive alliance, between the Honourable 
English East-India Company, and his Highness thePeishwahBajee Rao, Rogonaut 
Rao Pundit Purdhaun Bahaudur, his children, heirs, and successors, settled by 
Lieutenant Colonel Barry Close, Resident at the court of his Highness, by virtue 
of the powers delegated to him by his Excellency the Most Noble Richard Marquis 
Wellesley, Knight of the Most Illustrious Order of St. Patrick, one of his Britannic 
Majesty’s Mosr Honourable Privy Council, Governor General in Council, appointed 
by the Honourable Court of Directors of the said Honourable Company, to direct 
and controul all their affairs in the East Indies. 

Whereas, by the blessing of God, the relations of peace and friendship have un¬ 
interruptedly subsisted for a length of time, between the Honourable English East- 
India Company, and his Highness Rao Pundit Purdhaun Bahaudur, and have been 
confirmed at different periods, by treaties of amity and union ; the powers aforesaid, 
adverting to the complexion of the times, have determined, with a view to the 
preservation of peace and tranquillity, to enter into a general defensive alliance, for 
the complete and reciprocal protection of their respective territories, together with 
those of their several allies and dependents, against the unprovoked aggressions, or 
unjust encroachments of all or any enemies whatever. 

Article I. The peace, union, and friendship, so long subsisting between the two 
States, shall be promoted and encreased by this treaty, and shall be perpetual. The 
friends and enemies of either, shall be the friends and enemies of both; and the 
contracting parties agree, that all the former treaties and agreements between the 
two States, now in force, and not contrary to the tenor of this engagement, shall 
be confirmed by it. 

Article II. If any Power or State whatever shall commit any act of unprovoked 
hostility or aggression, against either of the contracting parties, or against their 
respective dependants or allies, and, after due representation, shall refuse to enter 
into amicable explanation, or shall deny the just satisfaction or indemnity which the 
contracting parties shall have required, then the contracting parties will proceed to 
concert and prosecute such further measures as the case shall appear to demand. 
For the more distinct explanation and effect of this agreement, the Governor 
General in Council, on behalf of the Honourable Company, hereby declares, that 
the British Government will never permit any Power or State whatever to commit, 
with impunity, any act of unprovoked hostility or aggression against the rights and 
territories of his Highness Rao Pundit Purdhaun Bahaudur; but will at all times 
maintain and defend the same, in the same manner as the rights and territories of 
the Honourable Company are now maintained and defended. 

Article III. With a view to fulfil this treaty of general defence and protection, 

N 2 his 




9 3 


APPENDIX C\ 

h»s Highness Rao Pundit Purdhaun Bahaudur agrees to receive, and the Honour¬ 
able East-India Company to furnish, a permanent subsidiary force of not less than 
six thousand regular native infantry, with the usual -proportion of field pieces and 
European artillerymen attached, and with the proper equipment of warlike stores 
and ammunition ; which force is to be accordingly stationed in perpetuity in his 
said Highness’-s territories. 

Article IV. For the regular payment of the whole expense of the said subsidiary 
force, his Highness Rao Pundit Purdhaun Bahaudur hereby assigns and cedes in 
perpetuity to the Honourable East-India Company, all the territories detailed in the 
schedule annexed to this treaty. 

Article V. As it may be found, that certain of the territories ceded by the fore¬ 
going article to the Honourable Company, may be inconvenient from their situa- 
ation, his Highness Rao Pundit Purdhaun Bahaudur, for the purpose of rendering 
the boundary line of the Honourable Company’s possessions a good and well defined 
one, agrees, that such exchanges of talooks or lands shall be made hereafter, on 
terms of a fair valuation of their respective revenues, as the completion of the said 
purpose may require: and it is agreed and covenanted, that the territories to be 
assigned and ceded to the Honourable Company by the fourth article, or in con¬ 
sequence of the exchange stipulated eventually in this article, shall be subject to the 
Exclusive management and authority of the said Company and of their officers. 

Article VI. Notwithstanding the total annual expense of the subsidiary force is 
estimated at twenty-five lacks of rupees, his said Highness hath agreed to cede, by 
Article IV., lands estimated to yield annually the sum of twenty-six lacks of rupees, 
the additional lack being intended to meet possible deficiencies in the revenues of 
the said lands, and save the Honourable Company from loss. 

Article VII. After the conclusion of this treaty, and as soon as the British Resi¬ 
dent shall signify to his Highness Rao Pundit Purdhaun Bahaudur, that the Honou¬ 
rable Company’s officers are prepared to take charge of the districts ceded by Article 
IV., his Highness will immediately issue the necessary purwannahs or orders to 
his officers to deliver over charge of the same to the Honourable Company j and it 
is hereby agreed and stipulated, that all collections made by his Highness’s officers, 
subsequently to the date of this treaty, and before the officers of the Honourable 
Company shall have taken charge of the said districts, shall be carried to the credit 
of the Honourable Company; and all claims to balances from the said districts* 
referring to periods antecedent to the conclusion of this treaty, shall be. considered' 
as null and void. 

Article VIII. All forts situated within the districts to be ceded as aforesaid, shall 
be delivered to the officers of the Honourable Company with the said districts : 
and his Highness Rao Pundit Purdhaun Bahaudur engages, that the said forts 
shall be delivered to the Honourable Company without being injured or damaged* 
and with their ordinary equipment of ordnance, stores, and provisions. 

Article IX. Grain and all other articles of consumption, and provisions, and all 
sorts of materials for wearing apparel, together with the necessary numbers of cattle, 
horses, and camels, required for the use of the subsidiary force, shall be entirely 
exempted from duties * and the commanding officer, and officers of the said sub¬ 
sidiary force, shall be treated in all respects in a manner suitable to the dignity and 

greatness 


APPENDIX C. 

greatness of both States : the subsidiary force will at all times be ready to execute 
services of importance, such as the protection of the person of his Highness, his 
heirs and successors ; the overawing and chastisement of rebels, or exciters of 
disturbance in his Highness’s dominions, and due correction of his subjects or 
dependants, who may withhold payment of the Sircars’ just claims ; but it is not to 
be employed on trifling occasions, nor like Sebundy to be stationed in the country 
to collect the revenues, nor against any of the principal branches of the Marhatta 
empire, nor in levying contributions from Marhatta dependants in the manner of 
Moolkgeery. 

Article X. Whereas much inconvenience has arisen from certain claims and. 
demands of the Marhatta state, affecting the city of Surat, it is agreed, that a just 
calculation shall be made of the value of the said claims by his Highness Rao Pundit 
Purdhaun Bahaudur and the Government of Bombay; and in consequence of the 
intimate friendship now established between the contracting parties, his Highness 
Rao Pundit Purdhaun Bahaudur agrees for himself, his heirs and successors, to 
relinquish for ever all the rights, claims, and privileges of the Marhatta state, 
affecting the said city of Surat; and all collections on that account shall cease and 
determine from the day on which this treaty shall. be concluded ; in consideration 
of which act of friendship, the Honourable East-India Company agrees, that a piece 
of land, yielding a sum equal to the estimated value of the said claims of the 
Marhatta state, shall be deducted from the districts ceded by Article IV.; and 
on the same principle, and from similar considerations, his Highness further agrees* 
that the amount of the collections made for the Poonah state, under the title of 
Nogabundy, in the Purgunnahs of C.hourassy and Chickley, shall be ascertained by 
an average taken from the receipts of a certain number of years, or by such other 
mode of calculation as may be determined on ; and his said Highness doth further 
agree for himself, his heirs and successors, to relinquish for ever the Nogabundy col¬ 
lections aforesaid, and they shall accordingly cease from the conclusion of this treaty : 
and it is agreed and stipulated, that a piece of land yielding a sum equal to the 
amount of the said Nogabundy collections, shall be deducted, from the districts 
ceded by Article IV., in the same manner as stipulated in regard to the Cnoute of 
Surat. 

Article HI. Whereas it has been usual for his Highness Rao Pundit Purdhaun 
Bahaudur to enlist and retain in his service,. Europeans of different countries, his said 
Highness hereby agrees and stipulates, that in the event of war breaking out 
between the English and any European nation, and of discovery being made that 
any European, or Europeans, in his service, belonging to such nation at war with 
the English, shall have meditated injury towards the English, or have entered into 
intrigues hostile to their interests, such European, or Europeans, so offending, 
shall be discharged by his said Highness, and not suffered to reside in his domi¬ 
nions. 

Article XII. Inasmuch as by the present treaty, the contracting parties are bound 
in a general defensive alliance for mutual defence and protection against all enemies* 
his Highness Rao Pundit Purdhaun Bahaudur consequently engages, never to 
commit any act of hostility or aggression against his Highness the Nabob Asoph Jah 
Bahaudur, or any of the* Honourable Company’s allies or dependants, or against 
any of the principal branches of the Marhatta empire, or against any power what¬ 
ever : 


94 


APPENDIX C. 

ever : and in the event of differences arising, whatever adjustment the Company’s 
Government, weighing matters in the scale of truth and justice, may determine, 
shall meet with full approbation and acquiescence. 

Article XIII. And whereas certain differences referring to past transactions, are 
known to subsist between the Sircar of his Highness Rao Pundit Purdhaun Bahau- 
dur, and the Sircar of his Highness the Nabob Asoph Jah Bahaudur ; and whereas 
an amicable adjustment of those differences must be highly desirable for the welfare 
and benefit of both the said Sircars, his Highness Rao Pundit Purdhaun Bahaudur, 
with a view to the above end, agrees, and acordingly binds himself, his heirs, and 
successors, to fulfil and conform to the stipulations of the treaty of Mhar ; and his 
Highness Rao Pundit Purdhaun Bahaudur further agrees, that on the basis of .the 
fulfilment of the said treaty of Mhar, and of the claim of his Highness the Nabob 
Asoph Jah Bahaudur to be totally exempted from the payment of Choute, the 
Honourable Company’s Government shall be entitled to arbitrate and determine 
all such points as may be in doubt or difference between the Sircars of their High¬ 
nesses aforementioned: And his Highness.Rao Pundit Purdhaun Bahaudur further 
agrees, that in the event of any differences arising between his Government and that 
of his Highness the Nabob Asoph Jah Bahaudur at any future period, the particu¬ 
lars of such differences shall be communicated to the Honourable East-India Com¬ 
pany, before any act of hostility shall be committed on either side, and the said 
Honourable Company interposing their mediation in a way suitable to rectitude, 
friendship and union, and mindful of justice and established usage, shall apply 
themselves to the adjustment of all such differences conformably to propriety and 
truth, and shall bring the parties to a right understanding: And it is further agreed, 
that whatever adjustment of any such differences the Company’s Government, 
weighing things in the scale of truth and justice, shall determine, that determina¬ 
tion shall, without hesitation or objection, meet with the full approbation and 
acquiescence of both parties. It is, however, agreed, that this stipulation shall 
not prevent any amicable negociations which the Honourable Company, and the 
Courts of Poonah and Hyderabad respectively may be desirous of opening, provided 
no such negociation shall be carried on between any of the -three parties without 
full communication thereof to each'other. 

Article XIV. Whereas a treaty of friendship and alliance has been concluded 
between the Honourable Company, and Rajah Anund Rao Guikwar Bahaudur; 
and whereas the said treaty was mediated and executed without any intention that 
it should infringe any of the just rights or claims of his Highness Rao Pundit Purd¬ 
haun Bahaudur affecting the Sircar of the said Rajah; his said Highness adverting 
thereto, and also to the intimate alliance now established between the contracting 
parties, doth hereby formally acknowledge the existence of the said treaty between 
the Honourable Company and Rajah Anund Rao Guikwar Bahaudur, and in as 
much as by reason of certain unfinished transactions, the conclusion of which has 
been suspended from time to time, various demands and papers of accounts are 
found to subsist between the Government of his Highness Rao Pundit Purdhaun 
Bahaudur, and the Sircar of the Rajah aforementioned: his said Highness placing 
full reliance on the impartiality, truth, and justice of the British Government, doth 
hereby agree, that the said Government shall examine into, and finally adjust the 
said demands and papers of accounts j and his said Highness further stipulates and 

binds 


a 


APPENDIX C. 

binds himself, his heirs, and successors, to abide by such adjustment as the British 
Government shall accordingly deteimine. 

Article XV. The contracting parties will employ all practicable means of concilia¬ 
tion to prevent the calamity pf war, and for that purpose will at all times be ready 
to enter into amicable explanations with other states, and to cultivate and improve 
the general relations of peace and amity with all the powers of India, according 
to the true spirit and tenor of this defensive treaty. But if a war should unfor¬ 
tunately break out between the contracting parties and any other power whatever, 
then his Highness Rao Pundit Purdhaun Bahaudur engages, that with the reserve of 
two battalions of sepoys, which are to remain near his Highness’s person, the 
residue of the British subsidiary force, consisting of four battalions of sepoys, with 
their artillery, joined by six thousand infantry and ten thousand horse, of his High¬ 
ness’s own troops, and making together an army of ten thousand infantry and ten 
thousand cavalry, with the requisite train of artillery, and warlike stores of every 
kind, shall be immediately put in motion for the purpose of opposing the enemy 
and his Highness likewise engages to employ every further effort in his power, for 
the purpose of bringing into the field, as speedily as possible, the whole force which 
he may be able to supply from his dominions, with a view to the effectual prosecu¬ 
tion and speedy termination of the said war. The Honourable Company, in the 
same manner, engage, on their parts, in this case, to employ in active operations 
against the enemy, the largest force which they may be able to furnish over and 
above the said subsidiary force. 

Article XVI. Whenever war shall appear probable, his Highness Rao Pundit 
Purdhaun Bahaudur engages to collect as many Bunjaries as possible, and to store 
as much grain as may be practicable in his frontier garrisons. 

Article XVII. As by the present treaty, the union and friendship of the two 
States are so firmly cemented, that they may be considered as one and the same, 
his Highness Rao Pundit Purdhaun Bahaudur engages, neither to commence nor 
to pursue in future any negociations with any other power whatever, without giv¬ 
ing previous notice, and entering into mutual consultation with the honourable 
East-India Company’s Government: and the honourable Company’s Government 
on their parts hereby declare, that they have no manner of concern with any of 
his Highness’s children, relations, subjects, or servants, with respect to whom his 
Highness is absolute. 

Article XVIII. In as much as by the present treaty of general defensive alliance,' 
the ties of union are, with the blessing of God, so closely drawn, that the interests 
of the two States are become identified^ it is further mutually agreed, that if dis¬ 
turbances shall at any time break out in the districts ceded to the honourable Com¬ 
pany by this agreement, his Highness Rao Pundit Purdhaun Bahaudur shall permit 
such a proportion of the subsidiary troops as may be requisite to be employed in 
quelling the same within the said districts. If disturbances shall at any time break 
out in any part of his Highness’s dominions contiguous to the Company’s frontier, 
to which it might be inconvenient to detach any proportion of the subsidiary force, 
the British Government, in like manner, if required by his Highness Rao Pundit 
Purdhaun Bahaudur, shall direct such proportion of the troops of the Company 
as may be most conveniently stationed for the purpose, to assist in quelling the said 
disturbances within his Highness’s dominions. 

Article 


95 


APPENDIX C 

Article XIX. It is finally declared, that this treaty, which, according to the 
foregoing articles, is meant for the support and credit of his said Highness's 
Government, and to preserve it from loss and decline, shall last as long as the sun 
and moon shall endure. 


Signed, sealed , and exchanged , at Bassein , the 31 st of December , 
A. D. 1802, or the $th of Ramzaun, A . H. 12x7. 




A true Copy, 
A true Copy, 


(Signed) 

(Signed) 


B. CLOSE, Resident at Poonah. 
M. WILKS, Private Secretary. 


SCHEDULE of the Territories ceded in perpetuity by his Highness Bajee Rao 
Rogonaut Pundit Purdhaun Bahaudur, to the Honourable English East-India Com¬ 
pany Bahaudur, agreeably to the fourth Article of the annexed Treaty. 

First. From the Province of Guzerat, and Territories South thereof: 
Dundooka, together with Choora Ranapore and Bogo, 1,05,000 
Cambay Choute and Nagpoor — 


SOUTH OF THE TAPTEE. 


Purnair — 

Bootar — 

Buwanny 

Bulrar — 

Panhole — 

Soopa — 

Sarbaun — 

Wallore — 

Bamdookufba 
Waunsda Choute 
Durumpoory Choute 
Surat Choute 
Customs — 


— 60,000 


27,000 

6,200 

8,800 

85,000 

107,000 

5UQOO 

30,000 

20,000 

7,900 

7,000 

9,000 

42,100 

83,000 


BETWEEN THE NERBUDDA AND TAPTEE. 

Oolpar - - - 

Hansood — _ _ 

Ocliseer — _ , 

Nundavy — _ _ 

Total South of the Taptee, and between the Taptee 
and Nerbudda _ 


3,16,000 

85,000 

78,000 

65,000 


— 10,38,020 


Deduct 



APPENDIX C. 

Deduct 20 per cent, on account of decrease of Revenue 2,07,600 

-8,30,400 

Nakabundy of Chourassy and Chickley — — 2a,ooo 

Phoolpara^ Coomaria, Cattugaum — — 5,000 

-25,000 

Second. From the Territories near the Toombudra. 

Savanoor twenty-six Talooks — 10,22,838 

From Bankapoor — — 5,56,762 

—--15,79,600 


Grand Total, 26,00,000 

Signed, sealed , and exchanged , at Bassein, the 31 st of December, 

A. D . 1802, or the 5th of Ramzaun, A. H. 1217. 


( The Seal of \ 

( The Peishwah’sX 

\ Pundit Purdhaun. / 

l Signature. j 

A true Copy, 

(Signed) 

B. CLOSE, Resident at Poor.ah. 

A true Copy, 

(Signed) 

M. WILKS, Private Secretary. 





O 


appendix 






* 


COK 




0 . 


APPENDIX D. 


CALCUTTA GAZETTES EXTRAORDINARY. 

Fort William , Augufl 29, 1803. 

A UTHENTIC intelligence has been received at Fort William, or the successful 
commencement of operations against Dowlut Rao Scindiah, by the forces 
under the command of Major General Wellesley. On the 8th instant, the large 
fortified Pettah of Ahmednuggur was carried by escalade with the utmost gallantry 
and rapidity. This operation was effected immediately upon the arrival of the army 
on its ground before Ahmednuggur, by the advanced picquets, reinforced by the 
flank companies of his Majesty’s 74th and 78th regiments, and the 1st battalion of 
3d Madras regiment native infantry, under the command of Lieutenant Colonel 
Harness, the Field Officer of the day. 

The official advices of this success have not reached Fort William ; but it appears 
by the intelligence received, that the loss sustained on the occasion by the British 
troops amounted to 


' 

Captains. 

Subalterns. 

Serjeants. 

Drummers. 

Rank and 

File. 

Total. 

Killed, 

Wounded, 

2 

0 

1 

1 

0 

1 

0 

1 

11 

30 

14 

33 


The names of the officers stated to have been killed in the assault, are Captains 
Grant and Humberstone, and Lieutenant Anderson of his Majesty’s 78th regiment. 

Lieutenant Wilson of his Majesty’s 74th regiment, and Lieutenant Plenderleath, 
of the 1 st battalion 3d Madras regiment native infantry, are stated to have been, 
wounded. 

Published by command of his Excellency the Most Noble 
the Governor General in Council, 

J. LUMSDEN, Chief Sec. to the Government. 


Fort William , August 31, 1803. 

AUTHENTIC intelligence has been received at Fort William, of the capitulation, 
of the important fortress of Ahmednuggur to the forces under the command of 
Major General Wellesley. 

The fortified Pettah having been taken by escalade on the 8th instant, batteries 
were opened on the night of the 9th against the fort. 

On the 1 oth the Killedar of the fort requested permission to send an officer to 
confer with Major General Wellesley, and desired at the same time, that the fire 
from the batteries might cease. Major General Wellesley agreed to receive an 
officer from the fort, but refused to interrupt the fire of the batteries. 


On 














APPENDIX D. 

On the nth the fortress capitulated. 

The terms of the capitulation are, that the garrison should march out on the 
12th at noon with their arms, and that all private property should be saved to the 
inhabitants. 

Hostages had been delivered into the hands of Major General Wellesley, to be 
detained until the evacuation of the fortress should acutually be completed j and all 
operations against the fort had ceased on the i ith instant. 

No account has been received of any loss sustained by the British troops under 
the command of Major General Wellesley since the 8th instant. 

Published by command of his Excellency the Most Noble 
the Governor General in Council, 

J. LUMSDEN, Chief Sec. to the Government. 


Fort William , September 8, 1803. 

HIS Excellency the most noble the Governor General has received a dispatch 
from the honourable Major General Wellesley, of which the following extract is 
published for general information :— 

my lord. Camp at Ahmednuggur , August 12, 1803. 

.The weather cleared up so much on the 7th instant, as to allow me to march to 
this place on the 8th ; I had in the morning dispatched a messenger to the Killedar 
of. Ahmednuggur, to require him to surrender his fort; and, on my arrival in the 
neighbourhood of the Pettah, I offered cowle to the inhabitants. This was refused, 
as the Pettah was held by a body of Arabs, who were supported by a battalion of 
Scindiah’s regular infantry, and a body of horse encamped in an open space between 
the Pettah and the fort. 

I immediately attacked the Pettah with the picquets of the infantry reinforced by 
the flank companies of the 78th regiment, under the command of Lieutenant Colonel 
Harness; in another place with the 74th regiment, and first of the 8th, under the 
command of Lieutenant Colonel Wallace ; and in a third with the flank companies 
of the 74th, and the first battalion 3d regiment, under the command of Captain 
Vesey. l'he Pettah wall was very lofty, and defended by towers, and had no ram¬ 
parts, so that when the troops had ascended to the attack, they had no ground 
on which they could stand ; and the Arabs who occupied the towers defended their 
post with their usual obstinacy. At length they were obliged to quit the wall, and 
fled to the houses, from which they continued a destructive fire upon the troops. 
Scindiah’s regular infantry also attacked our troops after they had entered the 
Pettah. In a short time, however, after a brisk and gallant contest, we were com¬ 
pletely masters of it ; but with the loss of some brave officers and soldiers, as your 
Excellency will perceive by the enclosed return. The enemy’s loss w r as, from the 
nature of the contest, necessarily much greater than ours ; and on the night of the 
8th, all that part of their force, which was not required for the defence of the fort, 
went off. to the northward ; including all the Arabs who survived the contest in 
the Pettah, excepting a small number who attended one of their wounded chiefs 
who could not be removed farther than the fort. 

On the 9th I reconnoitred the ground in the neighbourhood of the fort, and on 
that evening Lieutenant Colonel Wallace, with five companies of the 74th regiment, 
and the 2d battalion 12th regiment, seized a position within four hundred yards' of 
it, on which, in the course of that night, a battery was constructed for four guns, 
to take off the defences on the side on which I proposed to make the attack. This 
opened at day-light on the 10th ; and it was so advantageoufly placed, and fired with 

O 2 such 


99 



IOO 


APPENDIX D. 

such effect, as to induce the Killedar to desire that I should cease firing, in order 
that he might send a person to treat for his surrender. In my answer I told him, 
that I should not cease firing till I should have taken the fort, or he should have sur¬ 
rendered it j but that I should listen to whatever' he was desirous to communicate. 

Yesterday morning he sent out two vakeels to propose to surrender the fort, on 
condition that he should be allowed to depart with his garrison, and that he should 
have his private property. 

Although I consented to this proposal, it was five in the evening before the hos¬ 
tages arrived in camp, without whose presence I refused to stop the fire from the 
British batteries. According to his engagement, however, the Killedar marched out 
of the fort this morning, with a garrison consisting of 1400 men, and the troops 
under my command took possession of it. 

In this manner has this fort fallen into our hands ; our loss since the 8th has been, 
trifling, which I attribute much to the spirit with which our attacks on that day 
were carried on. 

I have to draw your Excellency’s notice towards the conduct of the troops, parti¬ 
cularly on that occasion, and towards Lieutenant Colonels Harness, Wallace, and 
Maxwell, who commanded in the trenches. Captain Beauman commanding the 
artillery. Captain Johnson of the engineers, and Captain Heitland of the pioneers, in 
the short subsequent siege. 

Your Excellency must be well acquainted with the advantageous situation of tha 
fort of Ahmednuggur on the frontier of his Highness the Nizam, covering Poohah,. 
and as an important point of support to all our future operations to the northward. 
It is considered in this country as one of its strongest forts; and excepting Vellore 
in the Carnatic, is the strongest country fort that I have seen. It is in excellent 
repair, excepting in the part exposed to the fire of the British troops. 

I shall hereafter have the honour of transmitting to your Excellency an account 
of the ordnance, stores, and grain, which it contains. 

I have the honour to be, my Lord, with the greatest respect. 

Your Excellency’s most obedient and faithful humble Servant, 

(Signed) ARTHUR WELLESLEY. 


Return 


APPENDIX D. 


101 


Return of the Killed and TVounded of his Majesty s and the Honourable Company's Troops, composing a Detachment 
in advance of the Grand Army, under the Command of Afajor-general the Honourable A. Wellesley, in the As¬ 
sault of the City of Ahmedtiuggur , on the 8 th August , 1803 ; and on the yth, I oth, and I ith, during the Siege of 
the Fort of Ahmednuggur. 


CAMP AT AHMEDNUGGUR, Aug. 12 , 1803. 

KILLED. 

WOUNDED. 

Europeans . 

Natives. j 

Europeans. \ 

Natives* 

Captains. 

Lieutenants. j 

I 

1 

& 

% 

Drummers. 
Rank and File. 

c 

TO 

£ 
a 5 

«l {? 

|l 

!x 

«* 

6 

!£ 

i 

Sepoys. 

Captains. ] 

«2 

a 

■-1 

1 

Ensigns. 

S 

<g 

Drummers. 

Rank and File. 

Subidars. | 

Jemedars. 

Havildars. 

Naigues. 

Drummers. | 

Gun Lascars. 1 

<A 

I 

•* 

8th August, 1803. 

On the assault of 
the city of Ah-" 
mednuggur. 

9th, 10th, and 11th 
August. During 
the siege of the. 
fort on Ahmed¬ 
nuggur. 

"His Majesty’s 19th Light Dragoons - - 
Hon. Company’s 5th Reg. Native Cavalry 
His Majesty’s 74th Regiment .... 
His Majesty’s 78th Regiment - - - - 

1st Battalion 2d Regiment Native Infantry 

1st Battabon.Sd Regiment Native Infantry 

1st Battalion 8th Regiment Native Infantry 
2d Battalion 12th Regiment Native Infantry 
2d Battalion 18th Regiment Native Infantry 
.1st Battalion Poineers - 

"Artillery - - .... 

His Majesty’s 74th Regiment 

1st Battalion 3d Regiment Native Infantry 
1st Battalion 8th Regiment Native Infantry 
2d Battalion 12th Regiment Native Infantry 
^Pioneers 1st Battalion .... 

* 

1 

1 


I 

I 

1 

10 

1 



1 

1 


51 

2' 

1 

1 

l! 


1 

1 


1 


1 1 

10 

39 

6 

2 

1 


1 

2 
2 

2 

1 

1 

1 

I 

1 

7 

7 

5 

1 

9 

1 

2 
5 

Total 

2 

2 


1 

1 

12l| 

1 1 

1 


10 


2 | i.l ! 

58 1 

1 


7 

I 

s| 1 

38 


("Captain Grant, 78th regiment. 

TC'll A J Captain Humberstone, 78th ditto. 

JLiUea " "S Lieutenant Anderson, 78th ditto. 

(.Lieut. Plenderleath, 1st bat.Sd reg.N.I". 

_. , , CLieutenant Wilson, 74th regiment. 

Wounded 2 Lieutwlam Larkins,78th ditto. 

(Signed) R. BARCLAY, Depy. Adjt. Gen. in Mysore. 
Published by command of his Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General in Council, 

J. Lumsden, Chief Sec. to the Government. 


General Orders, by his Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General in Councils 

Fort William , September 8, 1 803- 
THE Governor General in Council having received from Major General the Hon. 
Arthur Wellesley, the official account of the reduction of the important fortress of 
Ahmednuggur, by the forces under the command of that officer, is pleased to signify 
the high approbation with which, his Excellency in Council has observed the judg¬ 
ment, promptitude, and skill, manifested by Major General Wellesley, in directing, 
the operations of the forces under his command, on that critical, occasion. 

His Excellency in Council is pleased to direct Major General Wellesley to notify 
to the officers and troops under his command, that the Governor General in Council 
has derived the most cordial satisfactionfrom the distinguished alacrity, gallantry, 
and spirit, which they displayed in the attack upon the Pettah, and in the subsequent 
siege of the fort of Ahmednuggur; and the Governor General in Council has re¬ 
marked, with particular approbation, the conduct of Lieutenant Colonels Harness, 
Wallace, and Maxwell; ot Captain Beauman, of the Artillery j of Captain Johnson, 
©f the Engineers $ and of Captain Heitland, of the Pioneers. 



















































APPENDIX D. 

The Governor General In Council deeply laments the loss of Captains Grant and 
Humberstone, of Lieutenants Anderson and Plenderleath ; and of the brave soldiers 
who fell in the successful contest of the 8th of August. The memory of those gallant 
officers and soldiers, who have fallen with honour in the public service, will be re¬ 
garded with affection and respect, by their Sovereign and their country. 

By command of his Excellency the Most Noble 
' the Governor General in Council, 

L. Hook, Sec. to the Government, Mil. Dept. 


Fort William , September 8, 1803. 

A Dispatch, of which the following is an extract, has been received this day, by his 

Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General, from his Excellency the Com¬ 
mander in Chief. 

To his Excellency the Most Noble Marquis Wellesley, Governor General , &c. &c. 

MY LORD, 

I HAVE the honour to inform your Lordship, that I attacked Mr. Perron’s force 
this morning, which was strongly posted with their right extending to the fort of 
Ally Ghur, and their entire front protected by a deep morass, which obliged me to 
change my original plan of attack; and detour considerably to the right, to turn 
their left flank, which I completely effected, dislodging a body of troops which were 
posted in a village in the enemy’s front. 

On moving forward with the cavalry in two lines, supported by the line of infantry 
and guns, the enemy immediately retired after a very few shot from the cavalry 
guns, which did some execution. 

Several attempts were made to charge some considerable bodies of cavalry, who 
made an appearance of standing, but the rapidity of their retreat prevented the pos¬ 
sibility of effecting it so completely as I could have wished; but I have reason to 
believe, that in consequence of the operations of this day, many of his confederates 
have left him. 

My loss in men and horses is very inconsiderable, and no officer. 

I have the pleasure to assure your Lordship, that the zeal, activity, and steadiness, 
displayed by both officers and men, afforded me entire satisfaction, and deserve my 
warmest praise. 

My staff afforded me every assistance, and I feel myself under great obligations to 
them. 

From every information I can obtain, immediately on our advancing, Mr. Perron, 
with his body guard, retired towards Agra, and has left Colonel Pedron in charge of 
the fort. 

I am at present encamped to the southward of the fort, and the town of Coel is 
occupied by one of my battalions. 1 have the honour to be, 

My Lord, 

Your Lordship’s most faithful and humble servant, 
(Signed) G. LAKE. 

Head Quarters , Camp before Ally Ghur , August 29, 1803. 

Published by command of his Excellency the Most Noble 
the Governor General in Council, 

J. Lumsden, Chief Sec. to the Government. 

General 



APPENDIX D. 

General Orders , by bis Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General in Council, 

Fort William , Septemb 8 1803. 

The Governor General in Council is pleased to offer his most cordial thanks at d 
congratulations to his Excellency the Commander in Chief, upon the distinguished 
ability, energy, and success of the conduct of the forces under his Excellency’s per¬ 
sonal command, in the judicious and gallant attack of the forces under the command 
of Mr. Perron, in the vicinity of Coel, on the 29th of August. 

His Excellency in Council has received with the most sincere pleasure, the Com¬ 
mander in Chief’s report of the zeal, activity, and steadiness displayed by the officers 
and men, and of the meritorious services of the staff, on that important occasion. 

The Governor General in Council is pleased to direct the Commander in Chief to 
signify to the officers and men employed in the action of the 29th of August, that 
the conduct of the army on that day has obtained the high approbation of his Excel¬ 
lency in Council; has confirmed the reputation and honour of the British arms in 
India ; and has secured the most important advantages to the cause of the allies, in 
the prosecution of the war, and in the speedy establishment of permanent peace. 

By command of his Excellency the Most Noble 
the Governor General in Council, 

L. Hook, Sec. to the Govt. Mil. Dept. 

Fort William , 9 th September, 1803. 

A Dispatch, of which the following is an extract, has been received this day, by 

his Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General, from his Excellency the 

Commander in Chief. 

MY LORD, 

IT is with infinite satisfaction I inform your Lordship, that the inhabitants of this 
part of the country are coming in fast, and manifest a wish of being protected by 
the British Government, and that in consequence of my having caused it to be made 
known to the head men of the villages in this neighbourhood, that it is not my inten¬ 
tion to molest either the persons or properties of such of the inhabitants as shall claim 
my protection, I have the pleasure to say, that the people who ha^eserted the 
town of Coel on our approach yesterday, are returning fast to their nolfses, and the 
town is nearly repeopled ; indeed they have every reason to be satisfied, as the instant 
this position was gained, a battalion was posted in Coel to prevent plunder, by which 
means very little loss was sustained by the inhabitants. 

I learn from all quarters, that most of the enemy’s cavalry who opposed us yester¬ 
day, have returned to their homes, declaring their inability to oppose the English. 

From every account I can receive, the number of cavalry opposed to us amounted 
to fifteen or twenty thousand. 

The country in our rear is in a state of perfect tranquillity, nor has it been mo¬ 
lested by a single horseman. 

I have sent into the fort a summons in English and French, which will, I trust, 
have the desired effect. 1 have the honour to be. 

My Lord, 

Your Lordship’s most faithful, and humble servant, 

(Signed) G. LAJ^E. 

Head Quarters , Camp before Ally Ghur , August 30, 1803. 

Published by command of his Excellency the Most Noble 
the Governor General in Council, 

J. Lumsdjen, Chief Sec. to the Goverment. 


103 



104 


APPENDIX D. 

Fort William, September 10, 1803. 
To Captain Lionel Hook, Sec. to the Govt. Mil. Dept. 

SIR, 

I HAVE the honour, by order of the Commander in Chief, to forward to you, 
for the information of his Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General in 
Council, a return of the killed, wounded, and missing, in the action which took 
place yesterday, between the British army and that of General Perron. 

I have the honour to be, Sir, 

your obedient servant, 

D. OCHTERLONY, 

Head Quarters , Camp at Coel , August 30, 1803. Deputy Adjut. General. 


Return of the Killed , Wounded , and Missing , in the 2 d and Brigades of Cavalry. 

Camp at Coel, August 29, 1803. 



Subedars. 1 

Jemedars. 

Havaldars. 

J3 

1 

Trumpeters. 

Farriers. 1 

Privates. 1 

8 

O 

* 

Syces. 

Grasscutters. 

TOTAL. 

c 

h 

« 

”3 

1 txo 
re 

H 

r 

f Killed, 

27th Dragoons, Wounded, 

(_ Missing, 
f Killed, 

| 2d Native Cavalry, •< Wounded, 
(.Missing, 
r Killed, 

3d Native Cavalry,Wounded, 

_ (.Missing, 

29th Dragoons, Wounded, 

1st Native Cavalry, Wounded, 

^■tlh Native Cavalry, ^ bounded, 


1 

1 





1 

2 

1 

4 

1 

2 

1 

1 

5 

3 

3 

1 

1 

1 

2 

21 



Killed.- Men . 1 

Horses - 3 

Wounded. —Men - 4 

Horses - 8 

Missing.- Horses - 10 


Published by Command of his Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General in Council, 

L. Hook, Sec. to the Govt. Mil. Dept. 


- Fort William , September 15, 1803. 

A Dispatch, of which the following is a copy, has been received this day bv his 
Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General, from his Excellency the Com 
mander in Chief. 3 


To his Excellency the Most Noble Marquis Wellesley, Governor General , fcV. hfe. 

MY LORD, 

IT is with inexpressible satisfaction that I have the honour to report to your 
Lordship, the capture of the fort of Ally Glmr this morning by assault; 7 

of hlnodV 1 * ent s . ome days m fruitlcHS endeavours to save the unnecessary effusion 
of blood, o 1 finding that the natives persisted obstinately in their determination of 
resistance, and rejected every overture I made, I found myself under the necessity of 

determining 




























APPENDIX D. 


determining on some decisive measure, and after maturely considering the proba¬ 
bility of success, with the obstacles that opposed us, I judged it preferable to carry it 
by assault, than to lose time by the slower operations of a siege. 

In consequence of this resolution, I ordered the Honourable Lieutenant Colonel 
Monson to lead the attack, composed of four companies of his Majesty’s 76th regi¬ 
ment, and the 1st battalion of the 4th regiment native infantry under Lieut. Colonel 
Brown, with a detachment of the 17th native regiment under Captain Bagshaw. 

Colonel Horsford, of the artillery, covered their advance by a heavy fire from 
batteries in, situations which had been previously determined on. 

I attribute the success of this attack entirely to the gallantry and steady conduct 
displayed by the Hon. Lieutenant Colonel Monson, in leading on his men under a 
most galling fire of musketry and grape, against a fort hitherto deemed impregnable, 
and defended on all sides with the utmost obstinacy. 

It would be injustice in me, were I not to mention the distinguished bravery of 
the men of his Majesty’s 76th regiment, who, notwithstanding the loss of many of 
their officers, steadily persevered, till the attainment of their object was effected. 

To Colonel Brown, of the ist battalion of the 4th regiment, who has received a 
severe wound, and to the whole of the officers of that battalion, whose exertions on 
this occasion were most meritorious, my praise is justly due. 

To Major Mac Leod, who gallantly led the 76th regiment, after Colonel Monson 
was wounded ; and to Captain Shipton of the artillery, who had charge of the guris 
that forced the gate, both of whom, though wounded, still remained at their post, 1 
feel myself much indebted. 

To Colonel Horsford, who commanded the artillery, as well as to Captains Robert¬ 
son and Greene, who commanded the covering batteries, I feel myself under infinite 
obligations ; and, indeed, that whole corps merit my warmest praise, for the gallantry 
displayed on this occasion, as well as on every other in which they have been engaged. 

It is with extreme^ sorrow I lament the loss of many valuable officers of his Ma¬ 
jesty’s 76th regiment, and also of the Honourable Company’s service. 

I am sorry to add, that Colonel Monson’s wound is dangerous, and I fear I shall 
at all events be deprived of the services of this gallant officer for some time. 

I shall have the honour to forward to your Lordship, as soon as possible, returns 
of the killed and wounded officers and men of the army under my command j 
which, considering the nature of the attack, are as few as could be expected. 

I feel I shall be wanting in justice to the merits of Mr. Lucan, an officer, a native 
of Great Britain, who lately quitted the service of Scindiah, to avoid serving against 
his country, were I not to recommend him to your Lordship’s particular attention. 
He gallantly undertook to lead Colonel Monson to the gate, and point out the road 
through the fort, which he effected in a most gallant manner ; and Colonel Monson 
has reported having received infinite benefit from his services. If you deem him 
worthy of any mark of your Excellency’s favour, it will afford me great satisfaction 
if his services are rewarded by Government. ^ I have the honour to be, 

My Lord, 

Your Lordship’s most faithful humble servant, 
(Signed) G. LAKE. 


Head Quarters , Camp , Ally Gbur , September 4,1803. 

P. S. I have the honour to enclose correct returns of the officers killed and 
wounded in the attack this morning. 

M. Pedron, who commanded in the fort, is our prisoner. He was the only 
European in the garrison. (Signed) G. L. 

P Copy 


P 


io6 


APPENDIX D. 

Copy of the ist brigade Return of Killed, Wounded, and Musing, 4th September, 1803. 
His Majesty’s y6tb Regiment. 

Killed —Captain Cameron—Lieutenants Fleming, Browne, Campbell—Lieutenant 
and Adjutant St. Aubin. 

Wounded —Honourable Lieut. Colonel Monson—Major Mac Leod—Lieutenant 
Sinclair—Ensign Fraser—Forty men as yet ascertained. 

1 st Battalion 4th Regiment Native Infantry. 

Killed —Lieutenant John Turton, 

Wounded —Lieutenant Colonel Browne—Captain Berry—Lieut. Andre—Ensign 
Burgess. 

Number of Sepoys killed and wounded, not yet known. 

2 d Battalion 4th Regiment Native Infantry. 

Being in the fort, as yet not known. 
id Battalion 1 yth Regiment Native Infantry. 

Wounded —Captain Bagshaw—Lieutenant Boscawen. 

Number of Sepoys killed and wounded, not yet ascertained. 

Artillery. 

Wounded —Captain Shipton. 

Number of men killed and wounded, not yet ascertained. 

(Signed) G. A. F. LAKE, Military Secretary. 

Published by command of his Excellency the Most Noble 
- the Governor General in Council, 

J. Lumsden, Chief Sec. to the Govt. 


General Orders, by bis Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General in Council. 

Fort William, September 15, 1803. 

The Governor General in Council, under the strongest impressions of public grati¬ 
tude, notifies to the army, his unfeigned admiration of the distinguished conduct of 
the forces employed under the personal command of his Excellency General Lake, 
in the gallant and successful assault of the strong fort of Ally Ghur on the J4th 
instant. 

The proposal of surrender offered by the Commander in Chief to the garrison 
immediately after the retreat of Mr. Perron’s forces, afford the most convincing 
proof, that the humanity of the British character is intimately connected with the 
spirit of alacrity and valour, which marked the Commander in Chief’s judicious 
resolution to meet the obstinacy of the enemy by an immediate assault of the place. 

The judgment and energy manifested by the Commander in Chief in the plan of 
the attack, correspond with the intrepidity, spirit, and perseverance of his brave 
officers and soldiers, in executing the orders of their able and*gallant General; and 
tlfe glorious result of the assault has considerably augmented the reputation of the 
British name and the honour of the British arms in India. 

The Governor General in Council is pleased to direct the Commander in Chief to 
express the particular and most distinguished approbation with which his Excellency 
in'Council has viewed the courage, firmness, and ability, displayed by the Hon. 
Lieutenant Colonel Monson in leading the attack, under circumstances of the utmost 
degree of difficulty and danger. A strong sense of the interests of the public service, 
and a desire to witness a continuance of the glorious success of the British arms in 
India, render the Governor General in Council sincerely anxious, that this excellent 

officer, 



APPENDIX D. 

officer, (repeatedly distinguished by his conduct in various exigencies of the service,) 
may speedily be enabled to resume the command of his gallant corps, and to augment 
his claims upon the gratitude and applause of his country. 

The Governor-General in Council also directs the Commander in Chief to signify 
to Lieutenant Colonel Browne, of the ist battalion 4th regiment native infantry, 
and to all the officers of that battalion, that his Excellency in Council entertains the 
highest sense of their meritorious exertions, and warmly approves their honourable 
services. 

The Governor General in Council also desires, that his particular approbation may 
be signified to Major Mac Leod of the 76th regiment, to Captain Shipton of the 
artillery, and also to Lieutenant Colonel Horsford, Captains Robertson and Greene. 

It is with the greatest satisfaction that the Governor General in Council expresses 
his applause of the bravery, discipline, and steadiness of the men of his Majesty’s 
76th regiment, and of the corps of artillery, as well as of all the soldiers who were 
employed on this brilliant service. 

The loss of Captain Cameron, Lieutenants Fleming, Browne, Campbell, St. Aubin, 
and Turton, is deplored by the Governor General in Council. Their country, their 
friends, and their King, will however receive consolation for that loss, in reflecting 
upon the glory of their achievements, and upon the public advantage of their 
illustrious example. 

The Governor General in Council directs the Commander in Chief to signify to 
Mr. Lucan, the approbation with which his Excellency in Council has remarked the 
services rendered by that gentleman to the cause of his native country, in the spirited 
exertion of British courage and public zeal. It is highly satisfactory to his Excel¬ 
lency in Council to observe this meritorious example of a just attention to the duty 
which every British subject owes to the British Government in India. The Governor 
General in Council will not fail to reward the services of Mr. Lucan, in such manner 
as shall be recommended by the Commander in Chief. 

The Governor General in Council relies with confidence on the approved character 
of this army, and of the Commander in Chief, that their unabated magnanimity, 
skill, and perseverance, will be attended with a continuance of success, proportionate 
to the justice of our cause, and to the superiority of our arms. 

By command of his Excellency the Most Noble 
the Governor General in Council, 

L. Hook, Sec. to Govt. Mil. Dept. 


4 



P 2 


Fort 


io8 


APPENDIX D. 


Fort William, September 16, 1803. 

The following correct return of the killed and wounded at the assault of- *Ally 
Ghur, received this day from his Excellency the Commander in Chief, is published 
for general information: 

Return of the Killed and Wounded, at the Assault of Ally Ghur, on the Morning of the sph 

September, 1803. 



Lieutenant-Colonels. 

Majors. 

j Captains. 

Lieutenants. 

l 

c 

W 

Subadars. 

j Jemadars. 

Serjeants and Havildars. 

Drummers. 

Rank and File. 

Tindals. 

j Lascars. 

Bheastees. 

Bullockmen. 

Horses. 

27th Dragoons Wounded 

a mi C Killed 

Artillery | Wounded 

76th Regiment | Wounded 

1st Bat. 4th N. Reg. f^ ded 

2dBat.4thN.Reg. jg^ded 

4 Comps. 17th Reg. | Wounded 

1 

1 

1 

1 

1 

1 

1 

4 

1 

1 

1 

1 

1 

1 

2 

4 

3 

1 

3 

4 

1 

1 

2 

2 

7 

15 
. 58 

16 

69 

2 

12 

8 

32 

1 

3 

I 



6 

Total Killed and Wounded - 

2 

1 

4 

8 

2 

1 

2 

15 

2 

223 

1 

4 | 


6 

Total Killed - - 



1 

5 


1 


5 


43 

1 

3 | 



Total Wounded - - 

2 

1 

S 

3 

2- 


2 

10 

'2 | 180 


l! ‘1 

I 6 , 


Names of Officers Killed and Wounded. 

Artillery.—Captain Shipton, wounded. 

76th regiment.— Killed —Captain Cameron—Lieutenants Fleming, Browne, Camp¬ 
bell, and Lieutenant and Adjutant St. Aubin. 

Wounded .—The Hon. Lieutenant Colonel Monson, Major Mac Leod, Lieutenant 
Sinclair, and Ensign Fraser. 

1st battalion 4th regiment.— Killed —Lieutenant Turton. 

Wounded .—Lieutenant Colonel Browne, Captain Berrie, Lieutenant Andre, and 
Ensign Burgess. 

4 Companies 17th regiment.— Wounded —Captain Bagshaw, and Lieut. Boscawen. 

J. GERARD, Adj. General. 

Published by command of his Excellency the Most Noble 
the Governor General in Council, 

J. Lumsden, Chief Sec. to the Govt. 


Fort William, September 18, 1803. 

Dispatches were this day received by the Governor General, from his Excellency 
the Commander in Chief, dated from camp at Soomna, on the 7 th of September, by 
which it appears, that Mons. Perron, late Commander of the forces of Dowlut Rao 

Scindiah, 






























APPENDIX D. 


Scindiah, having resigned the service of that chieftain, had applied by letter, dated 
the 5th of September, for permission to pass with his family, property, and the 
officers of his suite, to Lucknow, through the territories of the Honourable Company, 
and of the Nawaub Vizier, and had also applied for a sufficient escort, to be composed 
either of British troops, or of his own body guard; his Excellency General Lake 
had immediately complied with Mons. Perron’s request, and had accordingly per¬ 
mitted that officer to proceed through the British territories, attended by a British 
officer, who had been appointed to meet Mons. Perron on the frontier, and to con¬ 
duct him to Lucknow. His Excellency, General Lake, had also permitted Mons. 
Perron to be escorted by his own body guard, and had provided for the reception of 
Mons. Perron in the Company’s territories, and those of the Nawaub Vizier, with 
every mark of respect and honour. 

Published by command of his Excellency the Most Noble 
the Governor General in Council, 

J. Lumsden, Chief Sec. to the Govt. 


Fort William , September 21, 1803. 

On the 2d instant, a body of predatory horse, commanded by a French officer, 
attacked the cantonment of Shekoabad, on the frontier of the district of Etawah. 
The British force at that post, consisting of five companies of the first battalion of 
the eleventh regiment of native infantry, with one gun, under the command of 
Lieutenant Colonel Coningham, continued to resist the attack of the enemy’s cavalry 
during the greater part of the day, with great resolution and spirit, and at length 
succeeded in repulsing the enemy. The enemy appear to have suffered considerably, 
and to have lost several officers on this occasion. The conduct of Lieutenant 
Colonel Coningham, and of the troops under his command, on this occasion, 
received the high approbation of his Excellency the Commander in Chief, ex¬ 
pressed in general orders. 

On the 4th instant Lieutenant Colonel Coningham was again attacked by the 
enemy’s troops, to whom he opposed a spirited resistance for some hoursbut 
having reason to believe that their number was so considerable as to render fur¬ 
ther resistance ineffectual, he surrendered, on condition that his detachment should 
be permitted to march to Cawnpore, with their arms and ammunition, and the gun 
attached to the corps ; that all private property should be protected, and that the 
detachment should not serve during the war with Dowlut Rao Scindiah. These 
terms were faithfully observed by" the enemy, and the detachment accordingly 
marched to Cawnpore. 

His Excellency the Commander in Chief on the night of the 4th instant, detached 
a force to Shekoabad. Intelligence has been received of the arrival of that force at 
the place of its destination, and of the retreat of the whole of the enemy’s troops 
from the Company’s dominions. 

The following are the names of the officers wounded in the attack of Shekoabad : 
Lieutenant Colonel Coningham, Lieutenant Stoneham, 

Captain Lamborne, Ensign Heysham. 

Captain Winbolt—Artillery, 

The number of Sepoys stated to be killed and wounded is sixty-three. 

Published by command of his Excellency the Most Noble 
the Governor General in Council, 

J. Lumsden, Chief Sec. to the Government. 

Fort 




APPENDIX D. 

Fort William , September 23,1803. 

A Dispatch of which the following is a copy, has been received this day, by his Ex¬ 
cellency the Most Noble the Governor General, from his Excellency the Com¬ 
mander in Chief. 

To Ins Excellency the Most Noble Marquis Wellesley, Governor General , &c. &c. 

MY LORD, 

I have the satisfaction to inform your Lordship, that after a march of eighteen 
miles, this morning I learnt that the enemy in great force, under Mr. Louis, had 
crossed the Jumna from Delhi, with the intention of attacking us. 

When we had encamped, we found our posts were attacked by a body of the 
enemy. On reconnoitring to our front, I found that the enemy’s whole army were 
drawn up in order of battle; I immediately ordered out the whole line, and ad¬ 
vanced to attack them in front. 

The enemy opposed to us a tremendous fire from a numerous artillery, which was 
uncommonly well served, and caused us considerable loss in officers and men ; but I 
have the satisfaction to add, that our advance under a most heavy cannonade, and 
actual charge of the enemy, at about one hundred paces distant, caused a most 
precipitate retreat, and left in our possession the whole of their artillery. 

The cavalry pursued the fugitives to the Jumna, making great havoc, and numbers 
were drowned in attempting to cross. 

In short, I have only to express my entire approbation of the gallantry of the 
troops under my command, during the whole of this most brilliant action; and 
shall have the honour to detail it more particularly to-morrow, which the lateness 
of the hour prevents me doing at present. 

The whole army v/as under arms from three this morning till this moment. 

I have the honour to be, my Lord, 

Your Lordship’s most faithful humble servant, 

(Signed) G. LAKE. 

Head Quarters; Camp opposite Delhi, Half past seven P. M. Sept. 11, 1803. 

Published by command of his Excellency the Most Noble 
the Governor General in Council, 

J. Lumsden, Chief Sec. to the Government. 


Fort William , September 24,' 1803. 
A Dispatch, of which the following is a copy, has been received this day, by his Ex¬ 
cellency the Most Noble the Governor General, from his Excellency the Com¬ 
mander in Chief. 

To his Excellency the Most Noble Marquis Wellesley, &c. &c. &c. 

MY LORD, 

My letter of yesterday will have informed your Lordship of the total defeat of the 
force under Mr. Louis. The lateness of the hour prevented my detailing the opera¬ 
tions of the day as fully as I could have wished. 

I cannot find terms sufficiently strong to express the high sense I entertain of the 
gallant services performed by the whole of the officers and men in the army under 
my command. 


When 




APPENDIX D. 

When the length of our march (upwards of eighteen miles,) is considered, the 
fatigue the whole army underwent, and that we were exposed to a most galling fire 
from the enemy of grape and chain shot, while advancing in line, the operations of 
yesterday must ever reflect the highest credit on all descriptions of troops engaged; 
and cannot fail of striking the enemy with a dread of our army ; and prove to them, 
that opposition to such superior discipline and courage, is useless. 

To.Major General Ware, who commanded the right wing, and to the Honourable 
Major General St. John, who commanded the left, I feel myself under infinite obli¬ 
gations. The former, I am sorry to say, received a very severe contusion, while ad¬ 
vancing with the right wing. 

Major General St. John was opposed to the enemy’s right ; the steadiness and 
ability displayed by the Honourable the Major General, quickly surmounted every 
difficulty, and forced the enemy to retire in disorder with very heavy loss.. 

To Colonel St. Leger, who commanded the cavalry, my warmest praises are due; 
the steadiness and gallantry of the whole corps, both Europeans and Natives, under 
a formidable fire of artillery, does them infinite honour. 

After the gallant and steady charge of his Majesty’s 76th regiment, led by Captain 
Boyce, and the whole of the infantry line, who advanced to within one hundred 
paces of the enemy, without taking their firelocks from their shoulders, when they 
fired a volley, and rushed on with the bayonet, with a determination nothing could 
resist, had forced the enemy to abandon their formidable artillery; Colonel St. 
Leger, with the cavalry under his command, moved rapidly forward, when a dread¬ 
ful slaughter ensued ; by a well-timed manoeuvre of the Colonel’s in intercepting 
their retreat to the Jumna, much execution was done : the enemy’s confusion was 
such, that many were drowned in attempting to cross the river. 

To Colonel Horsford, and every officer of the corps of artillery, I feel myself in¬ 
finitely indebted for their meritorious exertions on the occasion. 

The number of the enemy’s guns already collected is between fifty and sixty ; and 
I expect many more before the evening. I shall have the honour to forward a re¬ 
gular return of the enemy’s ordnance to morrow. 

I have to lament the loss of many officers and men killed and wounded in 
this action, returns of which shall be transmitted for your Lordship’s information. 

From the extreme heat and fatigue that both officers and men experienced, I 
have to regret the loss of Major Middleton, of the 3d native cavalry, and Cor¬ 
net Sanguine, of the 27th light dragoons, as well as of several European soldiers, 
who fell from the effects of the sun. 

I’have to lament the loss of Captain Robert M‘Gregor (Persian interpreter in the 
field,) who fell when advancing in a gallant style. 

• The consequences of this victory are, the evacuation of the city and forts of Delhi, 
and the'dispersion of the enemy in all directions. 

At the earnest request of his Majefly, who is anxious to put himself under the 
protection of the British Government, I shall cross the river with my army, as 
soon as a sufficient number of boats can be procured. 

My staff, as usual, conducted themselves to my entire satisfaction, and merit my 
warmest approbation. I have the honour to be. 

My Lord, 

Your Lordship’s most faithful humble servant, 

(Signed) G. LAKE. 

Head Quarters, Camp , Delhi Ghaut, September 12, 1803. 


Killed 


APPENDIX D. 

Killed by the effects of the Sun. —Major Middleton, 3d native cavalry. Cornet San- 
guine, 27th light dragoons. 

Killed in Action. —Lieutenant Hill, 12th native _ infantry.—Captain M«Gregor, 
Lieutenant Preston, Lieutenant Alden, 15th native infantry. 

Wounded. —Captain Coveil* 27th light dragoons. Cornet Crowe, 2d native 
cavalry. Cornet Mather, 2d native cavalry. Cornet Swindell, 3d native cavalry. 
Lieutenant M‘Donald, 76th foot. Lieutenant Wrottesley, 2d battalion 2d regt. 
Captain Matthews, artillery. 

The above is the most correct return that has yet been received. 

Published by command of his Excellency the Most Noble 
the Governor General in Council, 

J. Lumsden, Chief Sec. to the Government. 


Fort William, September 23, 1803. 

A Dispatch, of which the following is a copy, has been received this day, by his Ex¬ 
cellency the Most Noble the Governor General, from his Excellency the Com¬ 
mander in Chief. 

To his Excellency the Most Noble Marquis Wellesley, Governor General, &c. 

MY LORD, 

For your Lordship’s information, I have the honour to enclose a list of the killed 
and wounded, officers and men, of the army under my command, in the action of 
the 1 ith instant. 

Your Lordship will perceive, that our loss has been very great; but when I consi¬ 
der that we moved on against an immense artillery, of nearly one hundred pieces of 
cannon, and many-of a very large calibre, under as heavy a fire as I have ever been 
witness to, and that this fire was directed against a line, consisting, on the most cor¬ 
rect calculation, of not more than four thousand five hundred men, including cavalry, 
artillery and infantry; and that we were opposed by upwards of four times that 
number, it is no longer a matter of surprize. 

It is necessary to remark, that we had only one brigade of cavalry; consisting of 
the 27th light dragoons, and the 2d and 3d regiments of native cavalry ; the other 
brigades being detached for the protection of our own provinces. 

The mote 1 reflect on the glorious affair of the 1 ith, the more forcibly I feel the 
bravery and intrepidity displayed by every individual composing my army. I can¬ 
not find words to express my feelings on this occasion, nor can I sufficiently lament 
the loss of many brave fellows who have fallen. I have the honour to be. 

My Lord, 

Your Lordship’s most faithful humble servant, 

(Signed) G. LAKE. 

Head Quarters, Camp, near Delhi Ghaut, September 13, 1803. 

Return of the Killed, Wounded, and Missing, in the Action of the nth September, 1803. 

27th dragoons.—Killed—1 cornet, 1 quarter master, 1 serjeant, 9 privates—horses, 
troop 22, officer’s 1, quarter master’s 1. 

Wounded—1 captain-lieutenant, 1 seijeant, 17 privates—horses,troop 22,officer’s 1 

Missin * 

O' 




APPENDIX D. 


Missing—1 private—horses, troop 24, officer's 3. 

Total killed, wounded, and missing—men 32, horses 74. 

Artillery.—Killed -i serjeant, 1 corporal, 1 matross, 1 lascar. 

Wounded—1 captain, 1 serjeant, 1 corporal, 2 gunners, 8 matrosses, 2 serailgs,. 
13 lascars. 

Missing—1 gunner, 1 lascar. 

Total, 34. 

2d regiment native cavalry.—Killed, 15 horses. 

Wounded—2 cornets, 1 naik, 14 privates, 16 horses. 

Missing—5 horses. 

Total killed, wounded, and missing—men 17, horses 36. 

3d regiment native cavalry.— Killed, 1 major, 1 havildar, 5 troopers, 28 horses. 
Wounded—1 cornet, 1 jemadar, 1 naik, 9 troopers, 20 horses. 

Missing— 12 horses. 

Total killed, wounded, and missing—men 19, horses 60. 

76th foot.—Killed, 2 serjeants, 3 corporals, 29 privates. 

Wounded—i lieutenant, 1 serjeant, 3 corporals, 93 privates. 

Missing—1 corporal, 5 privates. 

Total killed, wounded, and missing, 138. 

2d battalion 4th regiment.—Killed, 2 havildars, 1 naik, 9 sepoys. 

Wounded—1 lieutenant, 2 subadars, 2 havildars, 4 naiks, i drummer, 6 9 sepoys. 
Total killed and wounded 91. 

2d battalion 12th regiment.—Killed, 1 lieutenant, 1 subadar, 2 havildars, 1 naik, 

3 drummers, 11 seyoys. 

Wounded—1 subadar, 1 havildar, 2 naiks, 32 sepoys, 1 bhisty. 

Total killed and wounded 56. 

1 st battalion 15th regiment.—Killed, 1 subadar, 3 sepoys. 

Wounded—3 havildars, 1 naik, 8 sepoys. 

Total killed and wounded 16. 

2d battalion 15th regiment.—Killed, 1 lieutenant, 1 drummer, 5 sepoys. 

Wounded—9 sepoys. 

Total killed and wounded 16. 

1st battalion 2d regiment.—Killed, 1 havildar, 1 naik, 1 sepoy. 

Wounded—1 lieutenant, 1 havildar, 1 naik, 12 sepoys. 

Total killed and wounded 18. 

2d battalion ad regiment.—Killed, 2 havildars, 4 sepoys. 

Wounded—2 lieutenants, 1 havildar, 1 naik, 18 sepoys. 

Total killed and wounded 28. 

1 st battalion 14th regiment.—Wounded, 1 havildar, 12 sepoys. 

Total Europeans Killed, Wounded, and Missing.— Killed, 1 major, 1 captain, two 
lieutenants, 1 cornet, 1 quarter master, 4 serjeants, 4 corporals, 39 privates. 

Wounded—1 captain, 1 captain-lieutenant, 4 lieutenants, 3 cornets, 3 serjeants, 
4 corporals, 2 gunners, 118 privates. 

Missing— l corporal, 1 gunner, 6 privates. 

Total killed, wounded, and missing, 197. 

Total Natives Killed, Wounded, and Missing. —Killed, 2 subadars, 8 havildars, 
3 naiks, 38 privates, 4 drummers, 1 lascar. 

O Wounded 


»4 


APPENDIX D. 


Wounded— 3 subadars, i jemadar, 9 havildars, 11 naiks, 191 privates, x drum* 
mer, 2 serangs, 13 lascars, 1 bhisty. 

Total natives killed and wounded 288. 


Horses Killed.67 

Wounded - - - - 59 
Missing - - - - 47 


Total 173 

Names of Officers Killed and Wounded in the Action of the nth instant. —Killed, Ma¬ 
jor Middleton, 3d regiment cavalry. Captain M‘Gregor, Persian interpreter in the 
field. Lieutenant Hill, 2d battalion 12th regiment. Lieutenant Preston, 2d bat¬ 
talion 15th regiment. Cornet Sanguine, 27th dragoons, and Quarter-Master R. 
Richardson, 27th dragoons. 

Wounded—Major General Ware. Captain Matthews, artillery. Captain Lieu¬ 
tenant Coveil, 27th dragoons. Lieutenant M‘Donald, 76th regiment. Lieutenant 
Wrottesley, 2d battalion 4th regiment. Lieutenants Alden and Harriot, 2d batta¬ 
lion 2d regiment. Cornets Crowe and Mather, 2d regiment cavalry. Cornet Swin¬ 
dell, 3d regiment cavalry. 

(Signed) J. Jerrard, Adjutant General. 

Published by command of liis Excellency the Most Noble 
the Governor General in Council, 

J. Lumsden, Chief Sec. to the Government. 


.' r U'- nd 1 <'!'•-! 


- Fart William^ September 26, 1803. 

A Dispatch, of which the following is an extract, has been received this day, by his 
Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General, from his Excellency the Com¬ 
mander in Chief. 


T0 his Excellency the Most Noble Marquis Wellesley, Governor General , &c. 

A1 b'jlmuov/ bitr.bj.UM 


MY LORD, 

I HAVE the honour to inform your Lordship, that the army this morning com¬ 
menced crossing the Jumna. I trust the whole will be on the opposite bank by the 
evening of the third day from hence. 

In consequence of the delay occasioned in preparing the necessary presents, I shall 
not visit his Majesty until the 16th instant. 

I have the pleasure to inform your Lordship, that Colonel Macan has reported to 
me, that he took possession of the fort of Firozabad on the 9th instant. 

My letter of the 7th will have informed your Lordship of Mons. Perron’s applica¬ 
tion for leave to pass through the Honourable Company’s territories, on his way to 
Lucknow. I have the honour to inform your Lordship, that Mons. Perron, ac¬ 
companied by Messrs Beckett and Fleury, passed Sarsnee on the 12th instant; the 
latter gentleman, who with some difficulty joined Mons. Perron, informed Colonel 
Ball, that the horse he had under his command has dispersed. 

I learn from all quarters, that the dispersion of the force that opposed me on the 
1 ith is most complete ; and I expect shortly to have it in my power to inform your 
Lordship, that Mons. Bourquain, alias Louis, and the other French officers in his 
babm • y.army,^ 




APPENDIX D. 

army, have delivered themselves up, as they have already requested to be allowed to 
throw themselves upon the protection of the British Government. 

, I have the honour to be, 

My Lord, 

Your Lordship’s most faithful humble servant, 

Vr , (Signed) G. LAKE. 

Head-Quarters, Camp, Delhi , September 14, 1803. 

Published by command of his Excellency the Most Noble 
the Governor General in Council, 

J. Lumsden, Chief Sec. to the Government. 

Fort William, Sept. 28, 1803. 

A Dispatch, of which the following is a copy, has been received this day, by his Ex¬ 
cellency the Most Noble the Governor General, from his Excellency the Com¬ 
mander in Chief. 

To his Excellency the Most Noble Marquis Wellesley, &c. 

MY LORD, 

I HAVE the pleasure to inform your Lordship, that Messrs. Bourquain, Geslin, 
Guerinmier, Del. Perron, and Jean Pierre, yesterday delivered themselves up prisoners. 

They reside for the present in the Fort under a guard. I shall, however, dispatch 
them in a few days under an escort to Futty-Ghur, from whence they will embark 
for the Presidency. 

I have the honour to inform your Lordship, that I intend paying my first visit to 
his Majesty to-morrow morning. I have the honour to be, &c. 

Head-Quarters, Delhi, Sept. 13, 1803. (Signed) G. LAKE. 

Published by command of his Excellency the Most Noble 
the Governor General in Council, 

J. Lumsden, Chief Sec. to the Government. 

Fort William, October. 1, 1803. 

A Dispatch, of which the following is an extract, was yesterday received by his Ex¬ 
cellency the Most Noble the Governor General, from his Excellency the Com¬ 
mander in Chief. 

To his Excellency the Most Noble Marquis Wellesley, Governor General, is?c. 

MY LORD, 

I HAVE the honour to inform your Lordship, that in consequence of the hour 
fixed upon by his Majesty, I yesterday, attended by the chief officers of the army, 
waited on his Majesty at his palace in the fort. 

Akber Shah, his Majesty’s eldest son, came to my camp to conduct me. 

His Majesty received me seated on his throne, when the presents were delivered, 
and the forms usual on those occasions were observed. 

His Majesty and his whole Court were unanimous in testifying their joy at the 
change that has taken place in their fortunes. I have the honour to be, 

My Lord, 

Your Lordship’s most faithful humble servant, 

(Signed) G. LAKE. 

Head Quarters, Camp, Delhi, September 17, 1803. 

Published by command of his Excellency the Most Noble 
the Governor General in Council, 

J. Lumsden, Chief Sec. to the Government. 

Q a 




APPENDIX- D. 


Fort William i October. 3, 1803. 

Dispatches, of which the following are copies, have been received by his Excellency 
the Most Noble the Governor General, from his Excellency the Commander in 
Chief. 

To bis Excellency the Most Noble Marquis Wellesley, Governor General , &c. 

MY LORD, 

1 HAVE the honour to enclose, for your Lordship’s information, a return of the 
* ordnance found in the fort of Ally Ghur, captured on the 4th instant. 

The condition of the guns, number of arms and accoutrements, quantity of 
powder, military stores, &c. have not yet been ascertained; but I have left Captain 
Best, an officer of artillery, in the garrison, who will, as soon as possible, send me 
exact returns, which I shall have the honour to forward to your Lordship. 

I have the honour to be, • 

My Lord, 

Your Lordship’s most faithful humble servant, 

(Signed) G. LAKE. 

Head Quarters , Camp near Coorjab , Sept. 8, 1803. 

Return of the Ordnance, &t'. captured in the Fort of Ally Ghur , on the 4th of September 1803. 


«ad 01 m D&kdV 

PLACES WHERE MOUNTED. 

dLnuoC) m iz usnO w 
ujiurvij/oO tmi oJ .a*;b ivullJ .1 

Guns. 

Howitzers. 

Mortars. 

Wall Pieces. 

Brass. 

Iron. 

Brass. 

Brass. 

Iron. 

On the Rounee, or Faussebraye, and on the circular Work before the 






Gates 






|Brass Guns, from an 11 pounder to a 9 pounder 

22 





jLon ditto, from a ten to a two pounder ... 


11 




{Brass 6 inch Howitzers - - - - 



4 



On the Bastions. 






{Brass Guns, from a 20 pounder to a six pounder 

6 





Iron ditto, from a 17 pounder to a 3 pounder 


8 




On the Curtains. 






Iron Guns, the calibre not taken - - - 


21 




Brass Mortars, 9i inch - - - 




1 


In the Arsenal Yard, and not mounted. 






Brass Guns, from a three pounder to a two pounder 

3 





Ditto, small. - 

2 





Iron Guns, from a 13 pounder to a 2 pounder 


16 




Ditto, small ------ 


4 




Brass Mortars, 11 inch - - ... 




1 


Iron Wall Pieces ..... 





182 

Total of the captured guns, See. 

33 

60 

4 

2 

182 


— 


N. B. 




















APPENDIX D. 

\ - f V 

N. B. There was not sufficient time to ascertain the exact condition of the above 
ordnance, so as to pronounce them serviceable, or unserviceable. 

In the arsenal yard is abundance of shot for the above guns, and some stone shells, 
but neither of them are yet counted. 

In the magazine is a large quantity of gunpowder, not yet weighed. 

In the arsenal is a great number of new arms and some accoutrements. Part of 
the arms are made after the European, and part after the country fashion ; the exact 
number of each not yet known. 

In the store-rooms are military stores of various kinds, but not at present examined. 

(Signed) JOHN HORSFORD, Lieut. Colonel, 

Commanding the Artillery in the Field. 


To his Excellency the Most Noble Marquis Wellesley, Governor General, &c. 

MY LORD, 

For your Lordship’s information, I have the honour to transmit a return of the 
ordnance, &c. taken from the enemy on the i ith instant. 

From the reports of the officer commanding the artillery, the whole of this ord¬ 
nance is remarkably fine, as will be more fully pointed out to your Lordship by the 
remarks of Colonel Horsford annexed to the Return. 

The whole of this artillery played on our line as we advanced. 

I have the honour to be. 

My Lord, 

Your Lordship’s most faithful humble servant, 

(Signed) G. LAKE. 

Cam/>, Delhi, Sept. 1 8 , 1803, Head-Quarters. 


Report of the Ordnance, &c. captured opposite Delhi, on the nth Sept. 1803. 


2 Brass—20-pounders, 

5 ditto—18-pounder carronades, 

3 ditto—16-pounder ditto, 

3 Iron—12-pounders, (French,,) 
14 Brass—4-pounders, 

1 Iron—6-pounder, 

13 Brass—6 pounders, 

5 ditto—3 ditto, 

4 Iron—3 ditto, 

1 Brass—8-inch mortar, 

1 ditto—8-inch howitzer, 

4 ditto—6-inch ditto, 

2 ditto—5* ditto. 




^he whole mounted on field carriages, 
with limbers and traces compleat. 


68 pieces of cannon of different natures. 

37 Tumbrils compleat, laden with ammunition. 

24 ditto ditto ditto, blown up on the field of battle. 


61 Tumbrils compleat, laden with ammunition. 

N B. Many tumbrils and ammunition carriages abandoned by the enemy in the 
Jumnah and Nullah, not included above. 






APPENDIX D. 


REMARKS. 

The whole of the above-mentioned ordnance appears “ serviceable,” excepting 
one iron 12-pounder, and one iron 3-pounder, which are burst in firing. 

The iron guns are of European manufacture; the brass guns, mortars, and 
howitzers, have been cast in India* one Portugueze 3-pounder excepted. Some 
bear an inscription of being made at Muttra; others at Ugein; but the whole are 
evidently from the design and execution of an European artist. The dimensions 
are, in general, those of the French; the workmanship is of as high a finish as any 
in the Company’s arsenal. * 

Thirteen of the 4-pounders have iron cylinders (or bores), over which it would * 
seem the metal was run in casting the pieces; the adherence is so close, that no 
slit or chasm appears, and nothing but the different colours of the two metals dis¬ 
covers the junction. The iron cylinder (or bore) is composed of four longitudinal 
pieces of hammered iron, remarkably close, and neatly fitted throughout the bore. 

The whole of the pieces are furnished with well made elevating screws; some 
are of the latest French improvement: and to the mortars and howitzers the same 
kind of elevating screws are, by a simple and ingenious adjustment, made to elevate 
the piece to any angle, and give either of them the double capacity of mortar and 
howitzer. 

The carriages are strong and good y some are neatly made according to the French 
pattern. 

The tumbrils are very stout, but of the clumsy size and shape made by the 
Company in their arsenal about twenty years ago ; some, however, have the modern 
draft chain, whilst others have retained the trace made of green hides. 

The ammunition, both round and grape, differs from that made in the Com¬ 
pany’s arsenal, insomuch as, that the bags are of cotton instead of serge, and not 
fixed to bottoms with the shot; and also, that two sorts of grape are made use of 
after the French ordonnance, viz. large balls for great distances, and smaller balls 
for lesser distances. 

Chain shot, rolled up into the shape of a ball, of the size of the bore of the piece, 
either mortar or howitzer, made part also of the enemy’s ammunition. 

(Signed) JOHN HORSFORD, Lt. Col. 

Commanding the Artillery in the Field. 

A true copy, (Signed) G. A. F. LAKE, Military Secretary. 

General Orders , by His Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General in Council , 

Captain General and Commander in Chief of all the Land Forces' serving in the East 

Indies. - 

Fort William, October 1, 1803. 

THE returns received by the Governor General in Council, of the ordnance taken 
on the field of battle near Delhi, on the 1 ith of September, 1803, have completed 
the official statement of the military operations conducted under the personal com¬ 
mand of his Excellency General Lake, from the 29th of August to the 18th of 
September. 

In reviewing the rapid and brilliant success of our arms within that period of 
time, every loyal subject of the British empire must be animated by the most zea¬ 
lous emotions of just pride, national triumph, and public glory. 

The Governor General in Council has already expressed the sentiments of grati¬ 
tude and admiration, with which he contemplates the conduct of his Excellency 

the 



APPENDIX D. 

the Commander in Chief, and of the officers and troops under his Excellency’s 
personal command, in the action of the 29th of August, and in the gallant assault 
of the fortress of Ally Ghur on the 4th of September. 

His Excellency in Council highly approves the judicious and early movement of 
the army after that important success, towards the principal station of the enemy’s 
infantry and artillery, and the position whence the most speedy relief might be 
afforded to the unfortunate representative of the House of Timur, and to his 
Majesty’s Royal Family. 

The decisive victory gained in the battle of Delhi, on the nth of September, 
justified the firm confidence reposed by the Governor General in Council in the 
bravery, perseverance, and discipline of the army, and in the skill, judgment, active 
spirit, and invincible intrepidity of their illustrious commander. 

The glory of that day is not surpassed by any recorded triumph of the British 
arms in India, and is attended by every circumstance calculated to elevate the f :me 
of British valour, to illustrate the character of British humanity, and to secure the 
stability of the British empire in the eaft. 

The Governor General in Council acknowledges, with the most cordial satisfac¬ 
tion, the distinguished services of Major General Ware, and of the Honourable 
Major General St. John, in the action of the llth of September; and directs the 
Commander in Chief to signify his particular approbation of the conduct of Major 
General Ware, in the command of the right wing of the British army, and of the 
conduct of the Honourable Major General St. John, in the ability and steadiness 
which he displayed in the command of the left wing, by surmounting every diffi¬ 
culty, and by forcing the right wing of the enemy to retire in disorder with heavy 
loss. 

The Governor General in Council also directs the Commander in Chief to notify 
to Colonel St. Leger, and to the corps of cavalry employed on this honourable occa¬ 
sion, the high approbation with which his Excellency in Council has received the 
report of their gallantry and firmness, and of the peculiar skill manifested under 
the able command of Colonel St. Leger, in their judicious, rapid, and decisive 
movements during the action, and after the flight of the enemy had commenced. 
His Excellency in Council contemplates with great satisfaction the advanced state of 
discipline of the native cavalry of Bengal, and the splendid proofs which that corps 
has afforded of its efficiency in active service against the numerous artillery of the 
enemy. 

The conduct of Captain Boyce, and of his Majesty’s 76th regiment, is noticed 
with the warmest applause by the Governor General in Council: the high reputa¬ 
tion established by that respectable corps in various services of difficulty and danger 
in India, appeared in the battle of Delhi, with a degree of lustre which has never 
been exceeded even by British troops. His Excellency in Council signifies his most 
distinguished approbation of the firmness and intrepidity of the officers and men of 
the native infantry, who, with his Majesty’s 76th regiment, at the point of the 
bayonet, forced an enemy, considerably superior in numbers, from a powerful and 
well-served artillery, and opened the way for the successful charge of the cavalry. 
The conduct of the native troops on this memorable day, reflects the highest 
honour upon the discipline of the army of Bengal, and confirms the confidence of 
the Governor General in Council in the diligence, skill, and courage of the officers 
of this establishment, and in the eminent character of our native soldiers. 

To Lieutenant Colonel Horsford, and the artillery, the Governor General in 

Council 


APPENDIX D. 


Council repeats the public testimony of approbation, which that meritorious corps 
has uniformly deserved in every exigency of the service. 

To the staff of the army, the Governor General in Council is happy to express 
the satisfaction with which he learns that they continue, on all occasions, to merit 
the warmest approbation of the Commander in Chief. 

The Governor General in Council sincerely laments the loss of Major Middleton, 
Captain Mac Gregor, Lieutenant Hill, Lieutenant Preston, Cornet Sanguine, and 
Quarter-master Richardson; and the brave soldiers who fell in the cxcrrp'ary 
exertion of deliberate valour and disciplined spirit, at the battle of Delhi. The 
names of these brave men will be commemorated with the glorious events of the 
day on which they fell, and will be honoured and revered, while the fame of that 
signal victory shall endure. 

In testimony of the peculiar honour acquired by the army under the personal 
command of his Excellency General Lake, the Governor General in Council is 
pleased to order, that honorary colours, with a device, properly suited, to comme¬ 
morate the reduction of the fortress of Ally Ghur on the 4th, and the victory ob¬ 
tained at Delhi on the 11 th of September, be presented to the corps of cavalry and 
infantry, European and Native, respectively employed on those glorious occasions ; 
and that a public monument be erected at Fort William, to the memory of the 
brave officers and men, European and Native, who have fallen in the public service 
during the present campaign. 

The honorary colours granted by these orders to his Majesty’s 27th regiment of 
dragoons, and to the 76th regiment of foot, are to be used by those corps while 
they shall continue in India, or until his Majesty’s most gracious pleasure be signi¬ 
fied through his Excellency the Commander in Chief. 

In concluding his orders on this memorable occasion, the Governor General in 
Council is pleased to direct, that the public thanks of the Supreme Government of 
the British possessions in India be given to his Excellency General Lake, Commander 
in Chief of his Majesty’s, and of the Honourable Company’s forces in India, who, 
with unexampled alacrity, eminent judgment, and indefatigable courage, under ex¬ 
traordinary difficulties, has prepared the army of Bengal for the field; has conducted 
it, by a rapid succession of glorious victories, to the complete defeat of a powerful 
enemy; and has maintained the honour of the British name in India, by a humane 
attention towards the inhabitants of the conquered provinces, and' by a due respect 
and reverence towards the unfortunate representative of the House of Timur, and 
towards his Majesty’s Royal Family. 

His Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General in Council, Captain General 
and Commander in Chief of all the land forces serving in the East Indies, is pleased 
to direct, that these orders be publicly read to the troops under arms, at every 
station of the land forces in the East Indies, and that the European officers of the 
native corps do cause the same to be duly explained to the native officers and 
troops. 

By command of his Excellency the Most Noble the 
Governor General in Council, 

L. HOOK, Secretary to the Govt. Mil. Dept. 

By command of his Excellency the Captain General and 
Commander in Chief of the Land Forces, 

J. ARMSTRONG, Acting Military Secretary. 

'His 


121 


> APPENDIX D. 

HIS Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General in Council, has received 
authentic advices of the capture of the fort and city of Baroach, by assault, on the 
29th of August, by the troops under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Wood- 
ington. 

Authentic intelligence has also been received of the capture of the fort of Jalna- 
pore, by the troops under the command of Colonel Stevenson. 

The official details of these important events have not yet been received from the 
Honourable Major General Wellesley. 

Published by command of his Excellency the Most Noble 
the Governor General in Council, 

J. LUMSDEN, Chief Secretary to the Government. 

Fort William , October 3, 1 803. 

Dispatches, of which the following are extracts, have been received by his 
Excellency the most noble the Governor General, from the Honourable the Governor 
in Council of Bombay. The official dispatches on this subject have not yet been 
received from the Honourable Major General Wellesley. 

To the Honourable Jonathan Duncan, Esq. President and Governor , &c. &c. in 

Council. 

Honourable Sir, 

I have the honour to enclose a copy of my letter to Major General Wellesley for 
your information. 

I have the honour to be, &c. &c. &c. 

(Signed) HENRY WOODINGTON, Lieut. Col. &c. 

Camp before Baroach , August 25, 1803. 

To the Honourable Major General Arthur Wellesley, &c. &c. 

Sir, 

I PIAVE the honour to acquaint you, that I have this morning attacked and 
taken possession of the pettah on the western face of the fort of Baroach. The bat¬ 
tery for two eighteen-pounders I hope to have finished in the course of the night, 
and that I shall be able to begin to batter to-morrow morning, when I flatter myself 
a speedy reduction of the fort will ensue. 

Agreeably to my communication to you, I marched from Baroda on the 21st, and 
encamped within two coss of Baroach on the 23d. It was my intention to have 
attacked the pettah (on the outside of which I was informed they had brought their 
whole force) on the morning of the 24th, expecting to have found the Fury schoo¬ 
ner with the two eighteen-pounders at anchor, about a coss from the fort, agreeably 
to the intimation I had received ; but early in the morning of the 24th, one of my 
cossids, who had been dispatched to Lieutenant Hewitson, the commander of the 
vessel, to give him notice of my approach, ^brough me information from him, that, 
on account of the shallowness of the water, it would be utterly impracticable to get 
his vessel to Baroach until the springs, and that he was at anchor at Bargood, five 
coss off. 

On this intelligence I marched to Bargood on the 24th, and made an arrangement 
to bring the eighteen-pounders and stores up in boats, and I am happy to acquaint 
you they are just arrived. 

We found the enemy in front of the pettah, as I expected, to receive us, and with 
great ease forced them to a precipitate retreat into the fort. 

jR Our 



APPENDIX D. 

Our loss in killed and wounded is not great; no European officer is hurt. I should 
have the honour of sending a return of the killed and wounded, but have not had 
time yet to collect them, from the troops being so much employed. The loss of the 
enemy I have not ascertained. 

I have the honour to be, &c. &c. he. 

(Signed) H. WOODINGTON, Lieut. Col. 

Commanding detachment against Baroach. 

Camp before Baroach , 25ih August 1803. 

P. S. My detachment consists of 500 rank and file of Europeans, and abou t he 
same number of the grenadier battalion of native infantry; two howitzers, two six 
pounders, and the two eighteen-pounders brought in the Fury. I marched from 
Baroda with two twelve-pounders, but I left them behind after the first day’s march, 
on receiving certain information of the Fury’s arrival in Baroach river, as our march 
would have been very considerably delayed by bringing them on. 

True Copies. (Signed) J. A. GRANT, Sec. to Govt. 

To the Hon. Jonathan Duncan, President and Governor, &c. in Council. 

Honourable Sir, 

I have the honour to enclose for your information, a letter I have this day ad¬ 
dressed to the honourable Major General Wellesley on the capture of Baroach. 

I have the honour to be, &c. he. &c. 

(Signed) H. WOODINGTON, Lieut. Col. 

Baroach , 2Qth August 1803. 

To Major General Wellesley, &c. &c. 

Sir, 

I HAVE the honour to acquaint you, that at three o’clock P. M. I stormed the fort 
of Baroach, and carried it with little loss, although the Arabs made considerable resist¬ 
ance, particularly on our entering the breach. The Arabs have suffered very con¬ 
siderably, and we have taken a great many stand of colours. A more steep ascent to 
the breach, and of such length is seldom seen. I cannot express myself in sufficient 
terms on the gallantry of the officers and men I have the honour to command. I shall 
have the honour to address you more fully to-morrow. I write this for your early 
information, immediately after we got possession of the place, which will, I hope, be 
an excuse for haste. 

I have-the honour to be, he. he. he. 

(Signed) H. WOODINGTON, Lieut. Col. 

Baroach , 2Qtb August , 1803. 

True Copies, (Signed) J. A. GRANT, Sec. to Govt. 


To the Honourable Jonathan Duncan, Esq. President and Governor, &c. in Council „ 
Honourable Sir, 

I HAVE the honour to transmit for your information, a copy of my letter of this 
day’s date, with enclosures, to the Honourable Major General Arthur Wellesley. 

We have taken at least twenty stands of colours from the Arabs and Scindians. 
I have only been able to collect ten, at present, which, together with the colours of 
the fort, I shall have the pleasure to send to the Presidency by the earliest oppor¬ 
tunity. I have the honour to be, with the greatest respect. 

Honourable Sir, 

Your most obedient humble servant, 

Baroach , August 30, 1803. HENRY WOODINGTON, Lieut. Col. &c. 





APPENDIX D. 


P. S. Since writing the above, I have three more stands of Arab colours brought 
to me; besides which, I have, at Major Cuyler’s particular request, permitted the 
86th regiment to keep two, making in all fifteen. 


To the Honourable Major General Arthur Wellesley, Commander in Chief of the 
British Forces on the Weflern Side of India. 

Sir, - 


I WROTE you yesterday evening after we had stormed and taken possession of 
the fort of Baroach. I have now the honour of acquainting you more fully on the 
subject. 

- lhe breach was reported practicable by the engineer at eleven A. M. when I 
determined to storm, but delayed it until three o’clock, not only that I might benefit 
by the assistance of the Fury and an armed boat, which I expected would arrive in 
time to take their stations opposite the fort, but as I thought that a very likely hour 
to find the enemy off their guard. 

The vessel and armed boat however did not arrive in time to afford any assistance. 

The enclosed orders for the storm will inform you of the disposition I made, as 
will the accompanying profile and elevation of the western front of the fort. 

The enemy made a desperate attack in opposing our entrance into the breach, but 
by the valour and spirit of the troops were speedily repulsed, and my orders were 
carried into full execution. After Captain Richardson had obtained possession of the 
first gate, Major Cuyler pushed on so rapidly, that he overtook the Arabs before the 
greatest part, both horse and foot, could get out of the gate, and put to death about 
200 of them. Many horses were also killed. 

I beg leave to submit to your notice the ready co-operation of Major Cuyler 
throughout every part of the service, his gallantry and conduct in the command of 
the storm, as also of Captain Richardson who led. 

The whole of the officers and men employed on this service have conducted them¬ 
selves so much to my satisfaction, that I cannot express myself too strongly in their 
commendation. 

I am now employed in establishing some order in the fort, in getting the eighteen- 
pounder, and every thing we do not want to move with, into it, also in burying the 
enemy’s dead, amounting to about 250. 

I have great pleasure in informing you, that our loss is small. Captain M c Laurin 
of his Majesty’s 86th regiment, the only officer wounded, and not badly. A return 
of the killed and wounded in the storm, as also a general return of the killed and 
wounded during the siege, I enclose. 

I have the honour to be. Sir, 

Your most obedient servant, 

(Signed) HENRY WOODINGTON, Lieut. Col. 

Baroach , August 30, 1803. 


Baroach , Monday , August 29, 1803. 
Field Orders , by Lieutenant Colonel Woodington. 

Parole, Britannia —Countersign Success. 

The breach being reported practicable, the fort will be stormed at three o’clock. 
Storming party under the command of Major Cuyler. 

Forlorn Hope—A serjeant, and twelve volunteers of his Majesty’s 86th regiment. 
1st party to lead under Captain Richardson.—100 rank and file of his Majesty’s 86th 

R 2 regiment 





124 


APPENDIX D. 


regiment including one flank company, and 100 rank and file of the grenadier 
battalion including the ilank company. 

party under Major Cuyler.—150 rank and file of his Majesty’s 86th regiment 
including one flank company, and 150 rank and file of the grenadier battalion 
including one flank company : each party to have hoes, pickaxes, and crows 
with them, carried by soldiers; the scaling-ladders (to be used if necessary) 
to be also carried by soldiers. 

Reserve under Captain Bethune.—100 rank and file of his Majesty’s 86th regiment, 
and 100 rank and file of the grenadier battalion. 

These parties will parade and be formed in the streets the troops occupy at two 
o’clock, and then be completed to thirty six rounds and well flinted ; after which 
they will be marched up to the rear of the battery under cover from the view of the 
fort, and wait in the utmost silence until the signal from two six-pounders, fired 
quick one after the other, directs their advance to storm the breach. The reserve 
will follow the storming party, and after having entered the breach, Captain Bethune 
will immediately form his men and wait to act as circumstances may direct. 
Twenty boxes of musquet ammunition to be taken in with Captain Bethune’s party. 

On entering the breach, Captain Richardson will turn to the left, and march by 
the works to take possession of the Cuttoopoor gate. Major Cuyler’s party will 
follow, and push on also by the works to take possession of the Jarraseer gate. 
When these gates are obtained, the works are to be cleared of any parties of the 
enemy in their vicinity, and the men to be kept under arms ready to act. at a mo¬ 
ment’s warning. A true copy. 

(Signed) H. WOODINGTON, Lieut. Col. 


Return of the Killed , Wounded , and Missing in the Pettah and the Storm of Baroach on the 2<)th of 
August, under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Woodington. Baroach, the 30 th of August 1803. 



Captains. 

Serjeants. 

Havildars. 

Drummers. 

O 

£ 

"O 

c 

c* 

JA 

C 

cq 

3 

1 

1 

1 

6 

Syrang. 

Tindals. 

Lascars. 

Puckaulies. 

Detachment of Artillery. 4 

Detachment H*. M. 61st regiment. 4 
His Majesty’s 86th regiment. J 

1st Grenadier Battalion. ^ 

1 

(Killed 
[ Wounded - 
fMissing 
(Killed 
| Wounded - 
(Missing 
(Killed 
Wounded - 
(Missing 
'Killed 
| Wounded - 
[^Missing 

2 

1 

1 

I 

I 




I 

I 

Total 

2 

2 


12 

1 

1 

I 


N. B. Captain James Richardfon, of H. M. 86th regiment, 1 

Captain L. Miaurin, of H. M. 86th regiment? } wounded the 29th instant.. 

(Signed) J. BEETE, B. M. 


Return 


























I2 5 


APPENDIX D. 

Return of the hilled, Wvoided, and Missing, during the Siege of Baroach, tinder the Command of Lieu¬ 
tenant Colonel Henry Woodington. Baroach, the 30 th August 1803. 



Captains. 

Lieutenants* 

1 

Serjeants. 

Havildars. 

Drummers. 

Rank and File. 

Syrangs. 

3 

c 

h 

Lascars. 

Puckaulies. 

Detachment of Artillery. •< 

Detachment of H. M. 61st! 
regiment. 

His Majesty’s 86th regiment.-^ 

.; i 

\ 

(Killed 
! Wounded - 
(.Missing 
("Killed 
Wounded - 
(Missing 
( Killed 
Wounded - 
^Missing 
(Killed 
; Wounded - 
^Missing 

1 

2 


2 

1 

2' 


S 

I 

1 

3 

1 1 

S 

2 
16 

1 



3 

2 

i 

1 

1 

Total 

3 

I 

3 

2-i 

1 

45 



Tl 

2 


N. B. Captain William Semple, of his Majesty’s 86th regiment, killed on the 25th instant. 
Captain James Richardson, of his Majesty’s 86th regiment, 9 

Captain L. M‘Iaurin, of his Majesty’s 86th regiment, j. wounded on the 29th u stmt. 

(Signed) J. BEETE, B. M. 

True Copies. 

(Signed) J. A. G a ant, Sec. to the Govt. 

Published by command of his Excellency the most Noble 

the Governor General, in Council, J. Lumsden, Chief Sec. to the Government. 


Fort Wi liam, October 14, 1803. 

A. dispatch, of which the following is an extract, has been received this day, by his 
Excellency the Most Noble the Governor. General, from his Excellency the 
Commander in Chief. 

To his Excellency the Most Noble Marquis Wellesley, Governor General , &c. 

My Lord, 

I HAVE the honour to enclose fbryour Lordship’s information, extract of a letter 
just received from Colonel Vandeleur, reporting the arrival of Colonel Dudernaigue, 
Messrs. Sinith and Lapanet, in his camp. 

No French officer of any consequence now remains in Scindiah’s service, and those 
who do, would, I have reason to believe, willingly avail themselves of any opportu¬ 
nity of. putting themselves under our protection. 

I have the honour to be, my Lord,, 

Your Lordship’s most faithful humble servant,. 

Head Quarters , (Signed) G. LAKE. 

Camp, Choma , 1st September , 1803. 

Extract of a letter from Colonel Vandeleur, dated Camp, Muttra, the 30 Sept. 1803.. 

Colonel Dudernaigue, and Messrs. Smith and Lapanet, having quitted Seindiah’s 
service, came into camp this day. A true Extract, 

(Signed) G. A. F. LAKE, Military Secretary. 

A dispatch j, 







































126 


APPENDIX D. 

A dispatch, of which the following is a copy, has been received by his Excellency 
the Most Noble the Governor General from the Honourable Major General 
Wellesley. 

Mv Lord, Camp , September 12, 1 803. 

I HAVE the honour to enclose copies of the papers* which contain a detailed account 
of the attack upon, and capture of, Baroach. I beg to draw your Excellency’s notice 
to the conduct of the troops employed on this service; particularly to that of Lieu¬ 
tenant Colonel Woodington who commanded, to that of Major Cuyler and Captain 
Richardson of the 86th regiment, and of Captain Cliffe of the Bombay engineers. 

I have the honour to be, my Lord, with the greatest respect. 

Your Excellency’s most obedient, 

And faithful humble servant. 

(Signed) ARTHUR WELLESLEY. 

His Excellency the Governor General , &c. 

Published by command of his Excellency the Most Noble 
the Governor General in Council, . 

J. LUMSDEN, Chief Secretary to the Government. 


General Orders , by his Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General in Council. 

Fort William , Oftober 14, 1803. 

THE Governor General in Council, derives great satisfaction from the intelligence 
which he has received of the reduction of the fort and city of Baroach, on the 29th 
of August, and of the ability, promptitude, and gallantry with which that important 
service was accomplished by the brave officers, and troops, under the command of 
Lieutenant Colonel Woodington of the establishment of Bombay. 

His Excellency in Council highly approves the conduct of Lieutenant Colonel 
Woodington in his judicious and spirited exertions for the early reduction of the 
place; in directing the operations of the siege; in his seasonable determination to 
assault the fort; and in the disposition which he made of the troops under his com¬ 
mand, with a view to secure the rapid success of that gallant attack. 

The Governor General in Council signifies his particular approbation of the valour 
and judgment manifested by Major Cuyler of his Majesty’s 86th regiment, through¬ 
put the service at Baroach, and in commanding the storm of the fort, and by Captain 
Richardson of the same corps in leading the assault. His Excellency in Council also 
observes, with particular satisfaction, the conduct of Captain Cliffe, of the engineers 
of Bombay. 

To all the officers and troops, European and native, employed on this honourable 
occasion, his Excellency in Council signifies his high commendation. 

The Governor General in Council laments the loss of Captain W. Semple of his 
Majesty’s 86th regiment, killed on the 25th of August, and of the few brave men 
who fell before Baroach. It is a great satisfaction, however, to observe, that an 
acquisition so important should have been secured with the loss of only one officer 
and of so few soldiers. 

In bearing a due testimony to the merits of the officers and troops employed in 
the reduction of Baroach, on the 29th of August, the Governor General in Council 
remarks, that on the same day, distinguished by the commencement of the victorious 
career of the army of Bengal, under the personal command of his Excellency General 

, * These Papers were published in the Gazette Extraordinary of the 4th O&ober. 


Lake ; 




APPENDIX D. 

Lake, upon the frontier of Oude, the army of Bombay at the western extremity of the 
peninsula of India, effected a service of the most arduous nature, with a similar 
spirit of alacrity and courage. In the course of an extensive and complicated system 
of miiitary operations, the glorious success of our arms since the comm6rlcement 
of this war has been uniform in every part of Indian the able and gallant officers 
and troops of his Majesty’s service, and of the several establishments of the three 
Presidencies, have been actuated by equal sentiments of public spirit and honour, and 
have co-operated with equal ardour and success in an united effort to accomplish the 
just objects of the allies. The Governor General in Council confides in the justice of 
our cause, in the unanimous zeal of the three Presidencies, and in the continued 
cooperation of their respective resources and power, that the views of the confede¬ 
rate chieftains will be speedily frustrated by the complete restoration of peace and 
tranquillity to the provinces of Hindostan and the Dekan, which have been disturbed 
by the ambition and violence of the enemy. 

The overnor General in Council directs, that copies of this order be transmitted 
to the Right Honourable the Governor in Council at Fort St. George, and to the 
Honourable the Governor in Council at Bombay, to be published to the armies of 
those Presidencies respectively. 

By command of his Excellency the Most Noble 
the Governor General in Council, 

(Signed) L. HOOK, Secretary to the Government, Mil. Dept. 

Fort William , October 18, 1803- 
Authentic advices have been received by his Excellency the most noble the 
Governor General, containing the important intelligence, that on the 23d of Sep¬ 
tember an action took place near the Adjuntee Pass in the Dekan, between the forces, 
under the command of the Honourable Major General Wellesley and the main body 
of the combined army of the confederate chieftains Dowlut Rao Scindiah, and the 
Rajah of Berar ; in which, after a severe engagement, which lasted for three hours,, 
the enemy was completely defeated, and ninety pieces of cannon were taken by the 
British troops at the point of the bayonet. 

Our loss has been severe in this glorious and brilliant victory. 

The official dispatches have not yet been received from the honourable Major 
General Wellesley. 

Published by command of his e Excellency the Most Noble 
the Governor General in Council, 

J. LUMSDEN, Chief Secretary to the Governments 


Fort William , October 19 th, 1803- 
The following dispatch, received last night by express, is published by order of his> 
Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General in Council. 

To Captain Armstrong, Acting Military Secretary to his Excellency the Most Noble the 

Governor General. 

Sir, 

I REQUEST you will be pleased to state to his Excellency the Most Noble the Go¬ 
vernor General, that the Barabutty fort has this instant been taken by assault. 

Lieutenant Colonel Clayton, of the 20th Bengal regiment, who commanded the 
attack, not having yet made his report to me, I am not enabled to forward to you 

for 

2k 


127 






APPENDIX D. 

for his Excellency’s information, the regular details of this success; but I understand 
his conduft, and that of the troops under his orders, to have been most honourable 
and brilliant 

The fortress Is of considerable strength, and was vigorously defended ; added to 
which, every possible obstruction was prepared by the enemy. 

Our loss on this occasion, 1 trust, has not been very considerable; I shall have 
the honour of forwarding to you, for his Excellency’s information, returns of the 
whole to-morrow. I have the honour to be, Sir, 

Your most obedient servant, 

(Signed) GEO. HARCOURT, 

Lieutenant Colonel commanding in Cuttack , and Military Secre¬ 
tary to bis Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General. 
Cuttack , the 14th October 1803, 1 P.M. 

The detailed statement of the combined operations by which the valuable province 
of Cuttack has been occupied by the British troops, will be published in a Gazette 
Extraordinary to-morrow. 

His Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General in Council is pleased to 
make the following appointments. 

Lieut. Col. George Harcourt to command the troops in the province of Cuttack. 

Lieutenant Colonel George Harcourt and John Melviil, Esq. commissioners for 
the settlement of the province of Cuttack. 

By command of his Excellency the Most Noble 
the Governor General in Council, 

J. LUMSDEN, Chief Secretary to the Government. 


General Orders, by his Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General and 
Captain General. 

Fort William , October 18, 1803. 
A royal salute to be fired to-morrow morning at sunrise, in honour of the reduc¬ 
tion, by assault, of the Barabutty fort at Cuttack, on the 14th instant, by the troops 
under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Harcourt, by which gallant action the 
conquest of the valuable province of Cuttack has been completed. 

By his Excellency’s command, 

(Signed) JAMES ARMSTRONG, Acting Military Secretary. 

Fort William , October 21, 1803. 

A Dispatch, of which the following is an extract, has been this day received by his 
Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General, from his Excellency the Com¬ 
mander in Chief. 

To his Excellency the Most Noble Marquis Wellesley, Governor General , &c. 

My Lord, 

FINDING it impossible to make approaches against this place, as long as the seven 
battalions of the enemy, who remained here, were in possession of the town of Agra, 
of an encampment with a large number of guns on the glacis, and of the ravines 
with which the south and south-west face of the fort is surrounded, I determined to 
dislodge the enemy from the town, and occupy the ravines this morning, which 
will answer as trenches, and afford complete cover for carrying on our works. 

With 





APPENDIX D. 

With this view I ordered Brigadier General Clarke, who was encamped with his 
brigade in the rear of the town, to take possession of it, at the same time that three 
battalions advanced to occupy the ravines. 

The attacks have succeeded, and the town as well as the ravines are now occupied 
by our troops. 

Lieutenant Colonel M‘Cullock, Major Haldane, and Captain Worsely, led the 
battalions that advanced on the ravines. Every praise is due to those officers, who 
performed every thing required of them, with the greatest alacrity and steadiness. 

I am sorry to say that a number of men have been killed and wounded as well as 
officers, owing to their high spirit and anxiety to possess themselves of the enemy’s 
guns ; they quitted the ravines and gained the glacis, driving the enemy from their 
position ; in effecting which, from being close under the fort, they were exposed to 
a very heavy fire. 

My thanks are due to the Honourable Major General St. John, for his spirited 
conduct in advancing at the head of the 2d battalion of the ,2d native infantry, 
which I found it necessary to order up to support the attack. 

Brigadier General Clarke, in his attack on the town, met with considerable resis¬ 
tance, which, by the gallant conduct of the officers and men under his command, 
was at length surmounted. I feel myself under particular obligations to Lieutenant 
Colonel White, who commanded five companies of the 16th regiment native infantry, 
for his judicious and gallant conduct on this day. 

I feel myself under the greatest obligations to Lieutenant Colonel Gerard, Adju¬ 
tant-general, who undertook to point out to Lieutenant Colonel M^ullock the road 
he was to pursue, and I am sorry to report that, in the performance of this duty, he 
received a very severe contusion ; but I trust it will not be attended with any serious 
consequences. 

Major Thomas, of the 14th native infantry, is, I am sorry to add, very severely 
wounded ; his exertions throughout this day were most meritorious. 

Lieutenant Hay of the artillery, who went with a detachment of that corps to 
bring off the enemy’s guns, merits my approbation for his successful exertions in this 
service. 

To Mr. Lucan’s information and exertions on this occasion, as well as on every 
other, I feel myself much indebted. I have the honour to be, my Lord, 

Your Lordship’s most faithful humble servant, 

(Signed) G. LAKE. 

Head Quarters , Camp before Hgra, October 10, 1803. 

P. S. A list of the guns taken shall be forwarded to-morrow. 

List of Officers wounded. 

First battalion 14th regiment native infantry—Major Thomas, and Lieutenant 
Rose, badly. Ensign Oliver, slightly. 

With Colonel Clarke.—Lieutenant Beagham, artillery ; Lieutenant Whitaker, 
infantry, severely ; Lieutenant Grant, infantry, and missing. 

Staff.—Lieutenant Colonel Gerard, Adjutant General. 

15th Regt. native infantry.—Lieuts. Perry and Addison, slightly. 

A more correct list shall be sent the moment it can be obtained. 

(Signed) G. L. 

Published by command of his Excellency the Most Noble 
the Governor General in Council. 

J. LUMSDEN, Chief Sec. to die Govt. 

S Fort 




130 


appendix d. 


Fort William , October 22, 1803. 

The following extract of a dispatch, received this day, is published by command 
of his Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General in Council. 


To Captain Armstrong, Acting Military Secretary to his Excellency the Most Noble the 

Governor General. 


Sir, 

I HAD the honour of briefly stating to you yesterday, for the information of his 
Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General, that the fort of Barrabutty had 
been taken by assault, by a party of the troops under my command, directed to per¬ 
form this service under the orders of Lieutenant Colonel Clayton of the 20th Ben¬ 
gal regiment. I now have the honour to acquaint you, for his Excellency's infor¬ 
mation, with the further details of this operation. 

On the night of the 12th, a spot was fixed on for a 12-pounder battery, distant 
about 500 y.irds from the outer gate of the fort. This battery was completed on 
the night of the 13th, and the 12-pounder placed in it, together with two howitzers 
•and two 6-pounders, the whole of which opened their, lire on the morning of the 
14th. By eleven o’clock in the forenoon, most of the defences on the south 
face of the fort, against which our fire was directed, were taken off, the enemy’s 
guns silenced, and every appearance promised success ; upon which I directed Lieut. 
Colonel Clayton to,advance with one 6 pounder, and a party of artillery men, two 
hundred Europeans from his Majesty’s 22d, and the Madras European regiment, and 
four hundred sepoys from the 20th Bengal, and the 9th and 19th regiments of Ma¬ 
dras native infantry. 

The party had to pass over a narrow bridge, and under a heavy, but ill-directed 
fire of musquetry from the fort, to which they were exposed for forty minutes. 
They at length succeeded in blowing open the w’icket (the remaining part of the 
gate having been fortified with thick masses of stone). Having once accomplished 
this, the party entered singly ; and although they met with considerable resistance 
whilst entering the fort, and passing two other gates, the British troops were soon 
completely victorious. 

I cannot too highly praise the conduct of Lieutenant Colonel Clayton, and that of 
the officers and troops under his command : the whole party manifested a degree of 
persevering steadiness and bravery that does them infinite honour. 

The fort of Barrabutty is of considerable strength, and with the exception only of 
the bridge over which our party passed, is inaccessible, as it is surrounded by a ditch 
from 35 to 135 feet broad, and twenty feet depth of water in it. 

I am happy to acquaint you, that our loss has not been considerable; but I have 
to report with regret that Captain Kenny of the igth regiment Madras infantry, Capt. 
liurlstone of his Majesty’s 22d regiment, and Lieutenant Faithful of the Bengal artil¬ 
lery, are wounded, though not* dangerously; their conduct was highly meritorious, 
as well as that of every other officer on the storming party. 

Returns of the killed and wounded are enclosed. 

I cannot omit expressing in the strongest manner, the high sense I entertain of 
the services of Captain Blunt, field engineer, who has been throughout our campaign 
indefatigably active ; and of Captain Hetzler, of the Bengal artillery, whose well 
directed fire from the battery was of eminent service. 

The loss of the enemy within the fort was very considerable, and many were 
drowned in the ditch, when endeavouring to escape. 


I should 


APPENDIX D. 

I should not omit mentioning that a stand of colours of the enemy was taken by 
the detachment of his Majesty’s 2 2d regiment, a second stand of colours by the 20th 
Bengal regiment, a third by the 9th Madras native regiment, and a fourth by the 
19th Madras native regiment; and for the disposal of which I hope to be honoured 
with his Excellency’s commands. 

The zealous and efficient services of Major of Brigade Thompson demand my 
warmest acknowledgments, and I must further beg leave to report to you for his 
Excellency’s information, that the general conduct of the whole force under my 
command has been such as to merit the most favourable representation of their ser¬ 
vices to his Excellency’s notice. 

I have the honour to be, &c. &c. 

(Signed) GEO. HARCOURT, 

Lieut. Colcnel commanding in Cuttack , and Military Secretary 
to bis Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General . 

Laid Bang Fort, Cuttack , October 15, 1803. 

Published by command of his Excellency the Most Noble 
the Governor General in Council, 

J. LUMSDEN, Chief Sec. to the Government. 


Return of the Killed and Wounded of His Majesty's and the Honourable Company's Troops in the 
Assault of the Fort of Barrabutty , on the 14th October , under the Command of Lieutenant Colonel 
Harcourt. 

Laid Baug Fort , Cuttack, October 15, 1803. 



KILLED. 

WOUNDED. 

Europeans. 

Natives. 

E 

UROPEANS. 


Nat 

IVES. 


Captains. 1 

Lieutenants. 1 

Serjeants. | 

Privates. 

Total. 

| Subidars. 

| Jemidars. 

Havildars. 

Naigues. 

| Privates. , | 

| Total. 

Captains. 

| Lieutenants. 

Serjeants. 

| Privates. 

| Total. 1 

| Subidars. 

Jemidars. 

| Havildars. | 

Naigues. | 

Privates. | 

Total. 

Detachment Bengal Artillery - 













1 



1 







Detachment H. M. 22 d Regt. - 




1 

1 







1 



8 

9 







1 st Division Madras Eur. Regt. 




1 

1 









1 

4 

5 







20 th Bengal Native Regiment - 










3 

3 












1 st Bat. 9th Regt. Madras.Nat. Inf. 





















1 

1 

1 st Bat. 19 th Reg. Madras Nat. Inf. 












1 




1 


2 

1 


9 

12 

Total 



1 

2 

2 





3 

3| 

2 

1 

1 12 

16 


2 

1 


l(jj 

13 


Captain Hurlstone, of his Majesty’s 22 d Regiment j 

Captain Kenny, of the 1st Bat. 19 th Regt. Madras Native Infantry - } wounded. 

Lieutenant Faithful, of the Bengal Artillery . ... j 

(Signed) FRAS. THOMPSON, Major of Brigade. 

Published by command of his Excellency the Most Noble the Gov. Gen. in Council, 

J. LUMSDEN, Chief Sec. to the Government. 

S 2 General 















































1 3- 2 


APPENDIX D. 


General Orders , Zw Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General in Council . 

Fort William, October 22, 1803. 

THE Governor General in Council notifies to the army his high approbation of 
the meritorious services of the officers and troops employed under the able conduct 
of Lieutenant Colonel George Harcourt, in the expedition prepared under the 
special orders of his Excellency in Council, for the occupation of the valuable pro¬ 
vince of Cuttack. 

His Excellency in Council observed with great satisfaction the judgment, skill, 
and firmness manifested by Lieutenant Colonel Harcourt, in directing the move¬ 
ment of the division of the troops which entered the province of Cuttack from 
Ganjain. 

The difficulties opposed to the progress of the troops by the peculiar nature of 
the country, by the period of the season, and by the resistance of the enemy, were 
surmounted by Lieutenant Colonel Harcourt, and by the brave officers and troops 
under his command, with the same spirit of gallantry and perseverance, which has 
secured the success of every operation of the British army in every part of India 
during this glorious campaign. 

The Governor General in Council highly approves the judicious arrangements 
prepared by Lieutenant Colonel Harcourt, for the siege and assault of the fort of 
Barrabutty at Cuttack, and the spirited exertion by which that important service was. 
executed with success and honour on the 14th instant. 

His Excellency in Council directs Lieutenant Colonel Harcourt to signify his 
distinguished approbation of the merits of Lieutenant Colonel Clayton, of the Ben¬ 
gal 20th regiment native infantry, who commanded the attack, and of the steadi¬ 
ness and bravery of all the officers and troops employed in the assault of the fort. 

It affords considerable satisfaction to the Governor General in Council to remark, 
that this important service has been effected with so little loss, and his Excellency 
trusts, that Captain Hurlstone, of his Majesty’s 22d regiment, Captain Kenny, of 
the 19th regiment of Madras native infantry, and Lieutenant Faithful, of the Ben¬ 
gal artillery, will speedily be restored to the public service, in which their courage 
and resolution have already been distinguished. 

The Governor General in Council expresses his sense of the activity, zeal, and 
useful services of Captain Blunt, field engineer in Cuttack, and also of the conduct 
of Captain Hetzler, of the Bengal artillery. 

The colours taken in the assault of the fort of Cuttapk by the detachments of his 
Majesty’s 22d regiment, the 20th Bengal native regiment, and the 9th and 19th 
Madras native regiments, are to be publicly displayed in the fort of Cuttack, and 
afterwards lodged in the principal building in the fort, with an inscription signifying 
the names of the corps by which the standards were respectively taken from the 
enemy. 

His Excellency in Council expresses the satisfaction -with which he has noticed the 
zealous and efficient services of Major of Brigade Thompson. 

During the advance of the force under the immediate direction of Lieutenant 
Colonel Harcourt from Ganjam, the conduct of the officers and troops employed at 
Balasore under the command of Captain Morgan, of the 7th Bengal native regi¬ 
ment, and of that which marched from Jellasore under the command of Lieutenant 
Colonel Fergusson, of the same regiment, merits the public approbation of his 
Excellency in Council. 


The 


APPENDIX D. 

The Governor General in Council particularly approves the firm and skilful con¬ 
duct of Captain Morgan, in directing the disembarkation of the troops at Balasore, 
and in the judicious occupation and maintenance of that position. His Excellency 
in Council also expresses his just sense of the meritorious and useful assistance ren¬ 
dered by Captain P. Grant, of the 16th regiment of Bengal native infantry, in the 
execution of every branch of the service at Balasore, and in aiding the progress of 
Lieutenant Colonel Fergusson’s detachment. 

Great advantage has been derived to the success of our arms in Cuttack from the 
respect which has been uniformly observed by Lieutenant Colonel Harcourt, and by 
all the officers and troops under his immediate command, as well as by the detach¬ 
ments co-operating from Balasore and Jellasore, towards the religious establishments 
in Cuttack, and from the exemplary humanity with which the lives and private 
property of the inhabitants, and the sanctity of the temples and institutions of the 
Brahmins, have been protected from violation. 

The Governor General notices with peculiar pleasure the merits of Lieutenant 
Colonel Harcourt, and of the officers and troops serving in Cuttack, in this respect, 
as tending to maintain the honour of the British character, and to conciliate the 
confidence and attachment of the inhabitants of that valuable province. 

By command of his Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General in Council, 

L. HOOK, Sec. to the Govt. Mil. Dept. 


Fort JVilliarn, October 24, 1803. 

Dispatches, of which the following are extracts, have been received by his Excel¬ 
lency the Most Noble the Governor General, from his Excellency the Commander 
in Chief. 

To his Excellency the Most Noble Marquis Wellesley, Governor General, &c. &c. 
My Lord, 

I have the honour to enclose herewith for your Lordship’s information, a return 
of the killed, wounded, and missing, in the affair of the icth instant. 

I have the honour to be, my Lord, 

Your Lordship’s most faithful humble servant, 

(Signed) G. LAKE. 

Head Quarters, Camp before Agra, Oct. 12, 1803. 


(W in 



Return 




APPENDIX D. 


Return of the Killed , Wounded , and Missing , in the Affair of the loth Oct. 1803. 




lb 

i 

Lieutenants. 

Ensigns. 

Subadars. 

Jemadars. 

Tindals. 

Havildars. 

Naicks. 

Gunners. 

J Drummers. 

Privates. 

Sepoys. 

Gun Lascars. 

f Killed 









1 





Artillery ^ Wounded 


1 




2 

1 


1 


7 


7 

^Missing 














f Killed 


1 










6 


2 d Bat. 9 lh Reg. 

Wounded 


1 


3 



2 

2 




44 


l 

Missing 












1 


f Killed 














1 st Bat. 12 th Reg. -< Wounded 


1 










2 


b Missing 














f Killed 







2 





15 


1 st Bat. 14 th Reg. -< 

Wounded 

: 1 

1 

1 

1 

2 


3 

3 


2 


55 


1 

^Missing 












11 


1 

r Killed 












2 


1st Bat. 15 th Reg. -< 

Wounded 


1 





1 





17 


b 1 

L Missing 







1 







I 

f Killed 







1 

1 




5 


2 d Bat. 15 th Reg. -< 

, Wounded 












13 



b Missing 








1 




" 1 



f Killed 












1 


2d Bat. 16 th Reg. -j 

[ Wounded 












4 



b Missing 














t 

r Killed 


1 





3 

1 

1 



29 


Total J 

! Wounded 

1 

5 

I 

4 

2 

2 

7 

5 

1 

2 

7 

135 

7 


(Missing 







1 

1 




13 



Names of Officers killed and wounded. 

Artillery.—Lieutenant Beagham, wounded. 

2d battalion 9th regiment.—Lieutenant Grant, killed ; Lieutenant Whitaker, 
wounded—since dead. 

1 st battalion 12th regiment.—Lieutenant Woolet, wounded. 

1st battalion 14th regiment.—Major Thomas, Lieutenant Rose, Ensign Oliver, 
wounded. 

1 st battalion 15th regiment.—Lieutenant Perry, wounded. 

J. GERARD, Adj. Gen. 


To his Excellency the Most Noble Marquis Wellesley, Governor General , &c. &c. 

My Lord, 

I HAVE the satisfaction to inform your Lordship, that the battalions who were 
opposed to us in the affair of the 10th instant, came over last night, and are now 
encamped near us. 

Their number is about 2500. 

I have reason to believe that their compliance with my terms was chiefly owing to 
the severe loss, and complete defeat they experienced in the affair of the 10th 

instant. 










































APPENDIX D. 

instant. By their own account the loss they sustained was upwards of six hundred 
killed. 

I have the honour to be, my Lord, 

Your Lordship’s most faithful humble servant, 

(Signed) G. LAKE. 

Head Quarters , Camp before Agra , Oct. 13, 1803. 

Published by command of his Excellency the Most Noble 
the Governor General in Council, 

J. LUMSDEN, Chief Secretary to the Government. 


Fort IVilliam , Oct. 25, 1803. 

A Dispatch, of which the following is an extract, has been this day received by his 
'Excellency the Most Noble,the Governor General, from his Excellency the Com¬ 
mander in Chief. 

To his Excellency the Most Noble Marquis Wellesley, Governor General , IFc. &c. 

My Lord, 

I HAVE the honour to inform your Lordship, that about noon yesterday I received 
note No. I, addressed to the officer commanding in the trenches ; in consequence of 
which I ordered all firing to cease till four in the evening, and in my answer. No. 2, 
desired a confidential person might be sent to my camp. 

About two o’clock. Colonel Sutherland, whom they liberated from confinement 
for that purpose, arrived in my camp with letters No. 3 and No. 4. 

As it appeared their wish that I should send an officer into the fort, I requested 
Captain Salkeld to accompany Colonel Sutherland thither with my replies. No. 5 
and 6, to explain to the garrison the terms on which they wxiuld be allowed to 
surrender. 

Captain Salkeld saw all the native chiefs, and found that they were not decided 
in their opinions on the subject. They started several difficulties; and whilst he 
was endeavouring to remove these, the firing from the fort recommenced, without 
any evident cause, which induced him to return to camp. 

Being desirous, from motives of humanity, to induce them to listen to my terms, 
a messenger, intrusted with a letter from me, was again sent this morning. They 
have refused, however, all intercourse, from which I am inclined to think that their 
only object yesterday was to gain time. 

My grand batteries wall open on the morning of the 16th, and I have reason to 
think that soon afterwards a practicable breach will be effected. 

I have the honour to be, my Lord, 

Your Lordship’s most faithful humble servant, 

(Signed) G. LAKE. 

Head Quarters , Camp before Ngra, Oct. 14, 1803. 


Sir, 


No. 1. 

To the Officer commanding opposite Mader Ghur. 


The fort demands a cessation of hostilities, and are going to send terms to camp. 
October 13, 1803. (Signed) G. W. HESSING. 

No. 2. 


L35 





APPENDIX D. 

No. 2. 

To Colonel G. W. Hessing, &c. 


Sir, 

Hostilities will cease till four o'clock this evening, before which time a confidential 
person is expe&ed to be sent into camp with the terms proposed. If he does not 
arrive before that hour, hostilities will recommence. 

The person who comes will be treated with every attention, and allowed to return 
in perfect safety. 

I have the honour to be, Sir, 

Your obedient humble servant, 

(Signed) G. A. F. LAKE, Military Secretary. 

Head Quarters of the British Army , Oct. 13, 1803. 


No. 3. 

To his Excellency General Lake, Commander in Chief \ &c. 

Sir, 

We have the honour to inform your Excellency, that notwithstanding the past 
violent and unwarrantable proceeding of the people of the fort, they have at last 
become a little more reasonable, from our repeatedly telling them that any further 
resistance on their part would avail them nothing, but, on the contrary, would 
exasperate your Excellency and the troops under your command, so as to exter¬ 
minate the whole of them if a storm took place. Their commandants have con¬ 
sequently come to us this forenoon in a body, and requested of us to forward to 
your Excellency the accompanying proposal for the surrender of the fort, to which 
their respective names are affixed. 

Should any unforeseen deviation from their proposal take place, as we are still 
their prisoners, we hope your Excellency will not impute to us the blame. 

Their proposal is to deliver up the fort, guns, stores. See. to your Excellency, at 
any time after the receipt of this you may think proper ; protection to themselves 
and private property, after delivering up the Sircar’s arms and property; and be 
allowed to remain in the city, or to go wherever their families may be. 

We have the honour to be. Sir, 

Your Excellency’s most obedient humble servants, 

(Signed) G. W. HESSING. 

Fort of Agra, Oct. 13, 1803. H. SUTHERLAND. 


No. 4. 

All the officers of the fort of Akberabad give in writing the following en¬ 
gagement : 

Whereas a misunderstanding had taken place with Colonel George William 
Hessing, at the instigation of the sepoys, all the officers and sepoys do give in 
writing this engagement, that we will implicitly abide by whatever the said Colonel 
may adjust on our paTt with General Lake, for the security of our lives, properties, 
effects, and honour. We have agreed to invest the said Colonel with full powers 
for this purpose. —This engagement is correct.—Dated the 25th Jemmaudee-oo- 
Saune 1218 (nth or 12th October).—Signed by fifteen officers, Mahomedans and 
Hindoos. 


No/ 5. 




APPENDIX D. 


No. 5. 

To Colonel George Hessing, Mr. Sutherland, &c. 

Gentlemen, 

Your letter has been received. 

On the terms proposed in the last paragraph of your letter, I allow the garrison 
to march out with protection to themselves and private property. After delivering 
up the Sircar’s arms, treasure, or any other public property, those who belong to 
the city may remain there, the others allowed to go where their families may be. 

I have the honour to be. Gentlemen, 

Your obedient humble servant, 

(Signed) G. LAKE. 

Head Quarters , British Camp , Oct. 13, 1803. 


No. 6. 

His Excellency General Lake engages, that all the officers and sepoys who are 
within the fort of Akberabad, shall be allowed to proceed in the most honourable 
manner, with their clothes, whithersoever they may choose. No interruption 
whatever will be given to those officers and sepoys, their families and children. But 
all arms and military weapons, muskets and guns, carts and carriages, and treasure, 
which may be within the fort, shall belong to the Company. 

They (officers, &c.) shall not be allowed to carry out of the fort any money or 
effects of the above description. 

The officers, &c. are required to specify in writing the hour at which they may 
determine with the bearer of this engagement to surrender the fort, in order that 
the British troops may enter the fort. 

God is witness to the sincerity of this engagement. 

Published by command of his Excellency the Most Noble 
the Governor General in Council, 

J. LUMSDEN, Chief Secretary to the Government. 


Fort William , October 28, 1803. 

A Dispatch, of which the following is a copy, has been received this day by his 
Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General, from his Excellency the Com¬ 
mander in Chief. 

T 7 his Excellency the Most Noble Marquis Wellesley, Governor General , &c. 

My Lord, 

I HAVE the pleasure to inform your Lordship, that the important fortress of Agra, 
termed by the natives “ The Key of Hindostan,” capitulated last night, and the 
garrison, consisting of between five and six thousand men, marched out at noon 
this day, when the place was immediately occupied by our troops, under the com¬ 
mand of Brigadier General M'Donald. 

The only terms required by the garrison were protection to their persons and pri¬ 
vate property, which was agreed to on my part. 

I attribute the early surrender of this place to the great impression our breaching 
batteries, which opened yesterday morning within 350 yards, made on the walls, 
and which would have caused a practicable breach in a few hours more battering. 

.1 T To 





APPENDIX D. 

To Colonel Horsford, of the artillery, and Captain Wood, of the corps of en¬ 
gineers, as well as to every other officer in those two corps, I feel myself under 
great obligations for their unremitted exertions on this occasion, and to'which I 
principally attribute my early success against this place. 

I have the pleasure to say our loss, since the construction of the batteries, has 
been very trifling. Three European artillery-men, and three Golundauze, killed, 
are the only casualties.. 

A return of the ordnance, stores, &c. found in the fort, I shall have the honour 
to forward for your Lordship’s information to-morrow. 

I have the honour to be, my Lord, 

Your Lordship’s most faithful humble servant, 

(Signed) G. LAKE. 

Head Quarters, Agra, Oct. 18, 1803. 

Published by command of his Excellency the Most Noble 
the Governor General in Council, 

J. LUMSDEN, Chief Secretary to the Government. 


Garrison Orders, by bis Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General and 

Captain General. 

Fort IVilliam, October 28, 1803. 

A royal salute to be fired immediately from the ramparts of Fort William, in 
honour of the surrender of the important fortress of Agra, on the 17th instant at 
night, to the forces under the personal command of his Excellency General Lake. 

A general discharge of the artillery on the ramparts of Fort William, followed 
by a feu dejoie from all the troops in garrison, to take place at sun-set this evening, 
and to be answered by the artillery at Dum Dum, and by the troops at Barrackpore. 

Extra batta to be served to the European troops in garrison. 

J ARMSTRONG, Acting Military Secretary. 

General Orders, by bis Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General in Council. 

Fort William, October 27, 1803. 

All officers now at the Presidency on leave of absence from their corps, whether 
on account of their health, or their private affairs, are immediately to report them¬ 
selves to the officer commanding at the Presidency ; and all officers who may here¬ 
after arrive at the Presidency, are to report their arrival to him. 

(Signed) THOMAS HILL, 1st Assist. Sec. Mil. Dept. 


Government House, Friday, Oct. 28, 1803. 

There will be a levee at the Government House on Monday next, the 31st instant, 
at ten o’clock. 

Captain Bristow will receive the cards of such persons as may be desirous of being 
presented to the Governor General. 

Aides-de-camp in waiting on Monday next, Captains Bristow and Camac. 

B. CAMAC, Aid-de-Camp. 

His Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General will hold a public durbar 
at nine o’clock in the evening of Monday, the 31st instant, for the purpose of re¬ 
ceiving the congratulations of the natives of rank and foreign vakeels at the 

Presidency, 




APPENDIX D. 

Presidency, on the late glorious success of the British arms in Hindostan and tire 
Dekan. 

By order of his Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General, 

N. B. EDMONSTONE, Per. Secretary to Government. 


Fort William , Oct. 30, 1803. 

Dispatches, of which the following are extracts, have been received this day by his 
Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General, from the Honourable Major 
General Wellesley. 

My Lord, Camp at Assye, Sept. 24, 1803. 

I WAS joined by Major Hill, with the last of the convoys expected from the river 
Kistna on the 18th, and on the 20th was enabled to move forward towards the 
enemy, who had been joined in the course of the last seven or eight days by the 
infantry under Colonel Pohlman, by that belonging to Begum Sumroo, and by 
another brigade of infantry, the name of whose commander l have not ascer¬ 
tained. The enemy’s army was collected about Bokerdun, and between that place 
and Jaffierabad. 

I was near Colonel Stevenson’s corps on the 21st, and had a conference with that 
officer, in which we concerted a plan to attack the enemy’s army with the divisions 
under our command on the 24th in the morning, and we marched on the 22d, 
Colonel Stevenson by the western route, and I by the eastern route, round the hills 
between Budnapoor and Jalna. 

On the 2*d I arrived at Naulniah, and there received a report that Scindiah and 
the Rajah of Berar had moved off in the morning with their cavalry, and that the 
infantry were about to follow, but were still in camp at the distance of about six 
miles from the ground on which I had intended to encamp. It was obvious that 
the attack was no longer to be delayed; and having provided for the security of my 
baggage and stores at Naulniah, I marched on to attack the enemy. 

I found the whole combined army of Scindiah and the Rajah of Berar encamped 
on the bank of the Kaitna river, nearly on the ground which I had been informed 
they they occupied. Their right, which consisted entirely of cavalry, was about 
Bokerdun, and extended to their corps of infantry, which were encamped in the 
neighbourhood of Assye. Although I came first in front of their right, I deter¬ 
mined to attack their left, as the defeat of their corps of infantry was most likely to 
be effectual; accordingly I marched round to their left flank, covering the march of 
the column of infantry by the British-cavalry in the rear, and by the Marhatta and 

Mysore cavalry on the right flank. , , . _ , , T r j 

We passed the river Kaitna at a ford beyond the enemy s left flank, and I formed 
the infantry immediately in two lines, with the British cavalry, as a reserve, m a 
third, in an open space between that river and a nullah running parallel to it. I he 
Marhatta and Mysore cavalry occupied the ground beyond the Kaitna on our left 
flank, and kept in check a large body of the enemy’s cavalry, which had followed 
our march from the right of their own position. . 

The enemy had altered the position of their infantry previous to our attack; it 
was no longer, as at first, along the Kaitna, but extended from that river, across to 
the village of Assye, upon the nullah which was upon our right. We attacked 
them immediately, and the troops advanced under a very hot fire from cannon, the 
* T 2 execution 




40 


APPENDIX D. 

execution of which was terrible. The picquets of the infantry, and the 74th re¬ 
giment, which w’ere on the right of the first and second lines, suffered particularly 
from the fire of the guns on the left of the enemy’s position near Assye. The 
enemy’s cavalry also made an attempt to charge the 74th regiment, at the moment 
when they were most exposed to this fire, but they were cut up by the British ca¬ 
valry, which moved on at that moment. At length the enemy’s line gave way in 
all directions, and the British cavalry cut in among their broken infantry; but some 
of their corps went off in good order, and a fire was kept up on our troops from 
many of the guns from which the enemy had been first driven, by individuals who 
had been passed by the line under the supposition that they were dead. 

Lieutenant Colonel Maxwell, with the British cavalry, charged one large body of 
infantry which had retired, and was formed again, in which operation he was 
killed ; and some time elapsed before we could put an end to the straggling fire which 
was kept up by individuals from the guns from which the enemy were driven. The 
enemy’s cavalry also, which had been hovering round us throughout the action, 
was still near us. At length, when the last formed body of infantry gave way, the 
whole went off, and left in our hands ninety pieces of cannon. 

This victory, which w r as certainly complete, has however cost us dear. Your 
Excellency will perceive by the enclosed return, that our loss in officers and men 
has been very great j and in that of Lieutenant Colonel Maxwell and other officers, 
whose names are therein included, greatly to be regretted. 

I cannot write in too strong terms of the conduct of the troops; they advanced 
in the best order, and with the greatest steadiness, under a most destructive fire, 
against a body of infantry far superior in numbers, who appeared determined to 
contend with them to the last, and who were driven from their guns only by the 
bayonet; and notwithstanding the numbers of the enemy’s cavalry, and the re¬ 
peated demonstrations they made of an intention to charge, they were kept at a 
distance by our infantry. 

I am particularly indebted to Lieutenant Colonel Harness, and Lieutenant Colonel 
Wallace, for the manner in which they conducted their brigades ; and to all the 
officers of the staff for the assistance I received from them. The officers command¬ 
ing brigades, nearly all those of the staff, and the mounted officers of the infantry, 
had their horses shot under them. 

I have also to draw your Excellency’s notice to the conduct of the cavalry, com¬ 
manded by Lieutenant Colonel Maxwell, particularly that of the 19th dragoons. 

The enemy are gone off towards the Adjuntee Ghaut, and I propose to follow 
them, as soon as I can place my captured guns and the wounded in security. 

I have the honour to be, my Lord, with the greatest respect, 

Your Excellency’s most obedient and faithful humble servant, 

(Signed) ARTHUR WELLESLEY. 

Colonel Stevenson arrived this morning at Bokerdun, and I imagine that he will 
be here this evening. 

His Excellency the Governor General , SsV. 


A Return 


APPENDIX D 


141 


A Return of the Killed , Wounded, and Missing, of the Detachment under the Command of Major-General the 
Honourable Arthur Wellesley, at the Battle of Assy, against the Army of Dowlut Rao Scindiah, 
on Friday the 23 d of September 1803. 


KILLED. 


EUROPEANS. 


Commi ion erf. 


gi-a ill 

■S’ Si g 
S (j!l» ' 


= -3 

s?l 3 


Staff. 


C ri. M. 19th Regt. Light Dragoons 
r , J H.C. 4th Regt. Native Cavalry 
ava ry. < i_j q Regt. Native Cavalry 
l^H. C. 7th Regt. Native Cavalry 
(" 1 st Battalion of the Madras Artillery 
Detachment if J 2d Battalion of the Madras Artillery 
Artillery. ' Bombay Artillery - 

l_ Attached to the Cavalry Guns 
,. T F 5 Majesty’s 74th Regiment 

ur. nj. £ Majesty’s 78th Re n meat 

CThe 1st Bat. 2d Regt. Nat. Infantry | 
I The 1st Bat. 4th Regt. Nat. Infantrv 
...... \ The 1st Bat. 8th Regt. Nat. Infantry 

J ' V' ■> The 1 st Bat. 10th Regt. Nat. Infantrv 
| The 2d Bat. 12th Regt. Nat. Infantry 
^Pioneers (1st Battalion of) 


Total 


el 2U2 


C 

C | 

O I 0 
S» | i 

3 £ 
CO Z, 


ii r 


CH 

■g 

rt 

A* 

rt 

& 


NATIVES. 


OfKc. 


l*ta 1 

r* ■ * c 

s 

bo .5 L 

G - 

* - 

73 

Si C u 
: o> 1 


A! 


\ ~ j - 4 c . ~ 

c 3 


S I ! 




4 ll| 


15 . 


11 


104 

22 


.1 1 


O fi 


13 

11 

8 


i 17 

24 
I 38 
I 29 

: 41 

; H 


1:I21 


1621 5 3 is! 4! 195 81 


Horses. 


C 3 


m 

o 

bio 

js 

TJ 

G 


. ' G 


—r ; o c 
c« o i *r rt 
G c: <y 

H P, os 


17 10 
16 


13 

IO 

19 j 

8 

8! 

1 

124 

S4 

21 1 
27 
47| 
35 
4:3 
15: 


77 

4 | 65 
6 80 
8:3 


2 428 20 305 



WOUNDED. 


EUROPEANS. 


Commissioned. 


Staff. 


ri 
G 
o 

Cl c r> 

i I 

S u u.j 


f H. M. 19th Regt. Lt. Drag. 
IRC 4th Regt. Nat. Cav. 
Cavalry .<( H c 5t h Regt. ditto ditto 
(_H. C. 7th Regt. ditto ditto 
_ rist Bat. of the Madras Art. 

Detach- , 2{ j g at _ 0 f jjjg Madras Art. 

m f lt -is 1 Bombay Artillery - - 
Artillcr. attached t0 Cavalry Guns 
. C His Majesty’s 74th Regt. 
hurJnJ. ^ -j s Majesty’s 78th ditto 
("1st. Bat. 2d Regt. Nat. Inf. 

I 1 st. Bat. 4th Regt. Nat. Inf. 
re) 1st Bat. 8th Regt. Nat. Inf. 
Nai.Jnf.^ lst Baf 10t k R e gt. Nat. Inf. 

j 2d Bat. 12th Regt. Nat. Inf. 1 
(^Pioneers (lst Battalion of) 1 


Total - 


2 4 


o .2 
C -3 


2117 


3 1 


o c 
o c 

S*-s 


s s 
8 ! B'S 

to-- ; c 

- ! “ I J 

Jt <1 2; 



N A1 IVES. 

Zi 

£ 

r 

9 

9 

2; 

1 Gnn I cars. 

ts. 

/ 

5 

fS 

.0 

r -1 

Hors. 

Trumpeters or Drummers. 

Rank and File. 

Offc. 

| Havildars or ad Tindais. 1 

tA 

u 

o 

3 

a 

o 

09 

— 

o 

G 

s 

G 

- 

Rank and File. 

05 

- 

rt 

CJ 

oo 

ce 

c 

G 

c 

Farriers. 

| Puckallies or Beasties. 

Total, including Officers. 

Horses. 

ce 
bO 

9 

k 

f 

O 

tr. 

& 

-3 

1H 

3 

j: 

Jemidarp or 1st TindaU i 

| Olficci 

Regimental. 

| Officers. 

> 

C5 

G 

C 

£ 

'St 

c; 

X 

2 

28 









40 


36 





2 





o 


24 




27 


22 










2 


28 




33 


26 

1 


1 






4 

1 


27 




33 


27 







16 


1 

2 



19 



39 




2 

2 




7' 

1 





7 



16 









5 






8 



14 











1 




i 



2 








4 

250 









277 









65 









77 



4 


4 







2 


20 



■ J 

22 



0 


3 





1 


6 


82 




90 



1 


1 





2 

1 

7 

3 

109 



1 

127 










3 

1 

6 

S 

90 



1 

105 



2 


2 





52 5 

S 


160 




185 











<3 

3 

q 


46 




51 



5 


5 



tj 6 S71 

12 16 39 

6 

586 

35 

2 

1138 


111 

16 

2 18 

2 


MISSING 


v 


List 















































































































































































APPENDIX D. 


List of Officers killed and wounded. 

His Majesty’s 19th light dragoons.—Lieutenant Colonel Maxwell, commanding 
the cavalry, and Captain R. Boyle, killed; Captains Cathcart and Sale, Lieutenants 
Wilson and Young, wounded. 

Fourth native cavalry.—Captain H. Mackay, agent for public cattle, killed ; 
Cornet Meredith, wounded. 

Fifth native cavalry.—Captain J. Colebrooke, wounded; Lieutenant Bonomi, 
Adjutant, killed; Lieut. Macleod, Quarter Master, and Lieut. Darke, wounded. 

Seventh native cavalry.—Captain Macgregor, wounded. 

First battalion artillery.—Captains Lieutenant Steele and Fowler, Lieutenants 
Lindsay and Griffith, killed. 

His Majesty’s 74th regiment.—Captains D. Aytone, A. Dyce, R. Macleod, Pay¬ 
master of the regiment, and J. Maxwell—Lieutenants J. Campbell, J. M. Campbell, 
J. Grant, R. Neilson, L. Campbell, and M. Morris—Volunteer G. Tew, not on the 
strength, but recommended for an Ensigncy, killed ; Major S. Swinton, Captain 
Lieutenant N. J. Moore, Lieutenants J. A. Mein, M‘Murdo, and M. Shawe, Ensign 
B. Kearnan, wounded. 

His Majesty’s 78th regiment.— Lieutenant J. Douglas, killed; Captain Lieute¬ 
nant C. M‘Kenzie, Lieutenants J. Kinlock and J. Larkin, Ensign J Bethune, acting 
Adjutant, wounded. 

First battalion 2d native infantry.—Lieutenant Brown, killed. 

First battalion 4th native infantry. —Lieutenant Mavor, killed. 

First battalion 8th native infantry.—Lieutenants Davie, Fair, Hunter, and 
Desgraves, wounded. 

First battalion 10th native infantry.—Lieutenant Perrie, killed ; Lieutenant Tay¬ 
lor, wounded. 

Second battalion 12th native infantry.—Lieutenant Colonel Macleod, Major 
M‘Cally, Lieutenants Bowdler, Harvey, Smith, and De Crez, wounded. 

(Signed) R. BARCLAY, Deputy Adjutant General in Mysore. 


My Lord, Camp , September 30, 1803. 

I HAVE the honour to enclose-an account of the ordnance taken from the enemy 
in the action of the 23d instant. I have reason to believe that there are still four 
more guns, which were thrown into the river by the enemy in their retreat. 

We have taken seven stand of colours, and the enemy lost all their ammunition, 
although the tumbrils having blown up, some during the action, and others during 
the succeeding night, we have got nothing but the shot. The ordnance is very 
fine ; but I have destroyed the iron guns, and shall put the brass guns in a place of 
security. 

The enemy lost twelve hundred men killed in the field of battle, and their 
wounded are scattered in all parts of the country. It is reported that Jadoon Rao, 
Scindiah’s principal minister, received a wound, of which he died the day before 
yesterday. Their army are in the greatest confusion, and retiring to Burhaunpoor. 
Colonel Stevenson has followed them down the Adjuntee Ghaut, and I propose to 
descend the Ghauts as soon as I shali have placed the wounded soldiers in security. 

I have the honour to be, my Lord, with the greatest respect, 

Your Excellency’s most obedient and faithful humble servant, 

(Signed) ARTHUR WELLESLEY. 
His Excellency the Governor General , &V. 


A Return 



APPENDIX D. 


A Return of Ordndnce takenfrom the Enemy in the Battle of the 23^ September 1803. 


DESCRIPTION OF 

ORDNANCE. 







C A L I B 

R E. 







TJ 

3 

3 

O 

o, 

CM 

18 ditto. 

16 ditto. 

12 ditto. 

10 ditto. 

9 ditto. 

8 ditto. 

6 ditto. 

O 

3 ditto. 

o 

3 

CM 

1 ditto. 

8 Inch. 

6 ditto. 

d 

'd 

3* 

5 ditto. 

Total Ordnance. 

Howitzers Brass 













2 

2 

2 

1 

7 

Guns ditto - - 


6 

7 

1 

1 


3 

22 

4 

12 

9 

4 





69 

Ditto Iron 

2 

2 

3 

2 


4 


5 

4 








22 

Total 

2 

8 

10 

1 3 

1 

4 

3 

27 

8 

12 

9 

4 

2 

1 2 

2 

1 

98 


The number of tumbrils, and quantity of ammunition and stores taken, cannot be ascertained, as, after the action 
and during the night, a great number of tumbrils were blown up. 

(oigned) M. BEAUMAN, Capt. commanding Artillery. 

Camp, Assye, 0.9th September 1803. 

Published by command of his Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General in Council, 

J. Lumsden, Chief bee. to the Govt. 

■ - = 

Fort William , October 31, 1803. 

A Dispatch, of which the following is a copy, was yesterday received from the 
Secretary to the Honourable the Governor in Council of Bombay. 

To John Lumsden, Esq. Chief Secretary to the Supreme Government at Fort William. 

Sir, 

I AM directed by the Honourable the Governor in Council to forward to you, for 
the information of his Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General in Council, 
the enclosed copy of a dispatch under this date, from the commanding officer of the 
forces, with its enclosures, respecting the capitulation of Powanghur. 

Major General Nicolls has been desired to communicate to the officer in com¬ 
mand, and to the other officers and men doing duty at the reduction of Champaneer 
and Powanghur, the entire approbation of Government of their very meritorious 
services. I have the honour to be. Sir, 

Your most obedient humble servant, 

(Signed) ; J. A. GRxAN f, Secretary to Government. • 
Bombay Castle , September 27, 1803. 


To the Honourable Jonathan Duncan, Esq. President and Governor in Council. 
Honourable Sir, 

THE enclosed is a copy of a letter from Colonel Murray, giving cover to one from 
Lieutenant Colonel Woodington, respecting the capitulation of Powanghur. I have 

the honour to be, &c. &c. &c. - 

(Signed) Oi NICOLLS, M. G. • 

Bombay, September 27, 1803. 





























1 44 


APPENDIX D. 


Sir, 


No. i. 

Major General Nicolls. 


I have the honour to enclose a letter which I received this morning from Lieute- 
nant Colonel Woodington. It is necessary to inform you, that the delay of this 
important communication arises from the miscarriage of the Colonel’s letter, although 
sent in duplicate. 

Colonel Woodington highly praises the zeal and activity of the troops under his 
command, and to judge by their success, the praise is well merited. 

Colonel Woodington has in a most particular manner requested that I should lay 
the meritorious services of Serjeant Moore, of his Majesty’s 86th regiment, before 
you. He led the forlorn hope at the assault of Baroach, and behaved with the ut¬ 
most gallantry on that occasion. Major Cuyler speaks highly in favour of his general 
character. 


I have the honour to be, &c. &c, 

(Signed) J. MURRAY, Colonel. 

Head Quarters, Baroda , September 21, 1803. 


No. 2. 

To Colonel Murray, commanding the Forces in the Guzerat. 

Sir, 

In consequence of your communication to me last night, that you had not received 
my official communication on the surrender of Powanghur by capitulation, I have 
the honour to address you again on the subject. 

After a breach had been effected in the wall of the inner fort, as also that another 
was almost practicable in a tower at the angle of the outer fort, the garrison offered 
to capitulate on the morning of the seventeenth, on condition of being.protected in 
their persons and private property. To these terms I agreed, on condition of imme¬ 
diately taking possession of the breach in the inner wall with a company of sepoys : 
they however tacked other stipulations to the capitulation, viz. that I should agree 
to pay them the arrears due from Scindiah, and that two of the commanders of the 
Guikwar cavalry with me (amounting to about 300 horse) should sign the agree¬ 
ment. To these latter articles I would on no account agree, and it was not until 
*four P. M. when they found from our continuing to batter, that I would admit of 
no delay, that they agreed to the original terms, which were immediately carried 
into full effect, by their evacuation of the fort and mountain, of which we took 
possession. 

If this had not taken place I had made the necessary arrangements for storming 
both breaches on the morning of the 18th, and I conceive that the garrison were 
intimidated from a knowledge that, if they opposed us on our entering the breaches, 
their, communication with the upper fort would be cut off, and they had nd other 
way to escape than the road which led down by our battery. 

Could they have obtained possession of the upper fort, or Balia Killa, at the top 
of the mountain, I am inclined to think it utterly impregnable. 

I have left Captain Cliffe of the engineers to take a plan and view of the forts and 
works on the mountain, which I doubt not, from his known abilities, will be ably 
executed. 


It 



APPENDIX D. 

It Is with the greatest pleasure that I embrace this opportunity of submitting for 
your notice, the merits, zeal, and great exertions of all ranks on this service. 

I have the honour to be, &c. &c. 

(Signed) H. WOODINGTON, 

Baroda , September 1 1, 18,03. Lieut. Colonel. 

Published by command of his Excellency the Most Noble 
the Governor General in Council, 

J. LUMSDEN, Chief Sec. to the Government. 


Fort William, November 1, 1803. 

DISPATCHES have been received this day from the Honourable Major General 
Wellesley, under date the 6th of October 1803, containing intelligence, that on the 
5th of October, Major General Wellesley had received a letter from the enemy’s 
camp, signed by Ballajee Khoonjur, one of the ministers of Dowlut Rao Scindiah, 
requesting that Major General Wellesley would dispatch a British officer, together 
with an officer of the Subahdar of the Dekan, to the enemy’s camp, for the purpose 
of negotiating terms of peace between the allies and the confederate Marhatta 

chieftains. . 

Major General Wellesley had not complied with this request, but had sigmiied his 
disposition to receive at the British camp, with every mark of honour and respect, 
any person duly empowered by the direct authority of Dowlut Rao Scindiah, or of 
the Rajah of Berar, to propose terms of peace to the allied powers. 

Published by command of his Excellency the Most Noble 
the Governor General in Council, 

J. LUMSDEN, Chief Sec. to the Government. 


General Orders, by His Excellency the Mojl Noble the Governor General in Council . 

Fort William, October 30, 1803. 

THE Governor General in Council has this day received from Major General the 
Honourable Arthur Wellesley, the official report of the signal and splendid victory 
obtained by the troops under the personal command of that distinguished officer, on 
the 2 ]d of September, at Assye in the Dekan, over the combined armies of Dowlut 
Rao Scindiah and the Rajah of Berar. 

At the close of a campaign of the most brilliant success and glory in every quarter 
nf India this transcendant victory demands a testimony of public honour, equal to 
° whi’ch the justice of the British Government in India has ever conferred on the 
conduct of our officers and troops in the molt distinguished period of our military 

U TTe y Governor in Council highly approves the skilful plan formed by Major Gene¬ 
ral Wellesley on the 21st of September, for precluding the escape of the enemy, and 
for reducing their combined army to the necessity of hazarding a general action. 

ffis Exceflency in Council also signifies his most cordial approbation of the magna- 
nimity promptitude, and judgment with which Major General Wellesley deter- 
mined upon the instantaneous attack of the enemy on the 23d of September. 

Turing the severe action which ensued, the conduct of Major General Wellesley 
united a°degree of ability, of prudence, and dauntless spirit, seldom equalled, and 

ne The S Govern d Jr General in Council signifies his warmest applause of the exemplary 





APPENDIX D. 


order and steadiness, with which the troops advanced under a most destructive fire, 
against a body of the enemy’s infantry, considerably superior in number, and deter¬ 
mined to oppose a vigorous resistance to our attack. The numerous infantry of the 
enemy were driven from their powerful artillery at the point of the bayonet, with 
an alacrity and resolution truly worthy of British soldiers; and the firmness and 
discipline manifested by our brave infantry, in repelling the great body of the ene¬ 
my’s cavalry, merit the highest commendation. 

The Governor General in Council has remarked with great satisfaction, the gal¬ 
lant and skilful conduct of the cavalry, commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Max¬ 
well, and particularly of his Majesty’s 19th regiment of light dragoons, a corps dis¬ 
tinguished in India by a long and uninterrupted course of arduous service and of 
progressive honour. 

His Excellency in Council directs Major General Wellesley to signify to all the 
officers and troops employed on this glorious occasion, and especially to Lieutenant 
Colonel Harness, and to Lieutenant Colonel Wallace, who commanded brigades, 
and to the officers of the staff, the high sense entertained by the Governor General 
in Council of their eminent and honourable services. 

The important benefits resulting from the triumph of our arms in the battle of 
Assye are not inferior to the splendor of the action. The immediate consequences 
derived from the exertions of that day have been the complete defeat of the com- 
* bined army of the confederate chieftains; an irreparable blow to the strength and effi¬ 
ciency of their military resources, especially of their artillery, in the Dekan; the expul¬ 
sion of an hostile and predatory army from the territory of our ally the Soubahdar of 
the Dekan; and a seasonable and effectual check to the ambition, pride, and rapacity 
of the enemy. 

The prosperous result of these advantages must be accelerated by the auspicious 
progress of our arms in other provinces of India; and it may reasonably be expected 
that the decisive victories gained at Delhi and Assye on the 11 th and 23d of Septem¬ 
ber, will speedily compel the enemy to restore peace to Hindostari and to the Dekan. 

The achievements of our commanders, officers, and troops during this campaign, 
and especially in the signal victories of Delhi and of Assye, must inspire a general 
sentiment of just confidence in the vigour of our military resources, and in the stabi¬ 
lity of our dominion and power. Our uniform success in frustrating every advan¬ 
tage of superior numbers, of powerful artillery, and even of obstinate resistance op¬ 
posed by the enemy, constitutes a satisfactory proof of the established superiority of 
British discipline, experience, and valor; and demonstrates, that the glorious pro¬ 
gress of our arms is not the accidental result of a temporary or transient advantage, 
but the natural and certain effect of a permanent cause. 

From these reflections, consolation is to be derived for the loss of those lamented 
and honoured officers and soldiers, who, animated by the gallant spirit of their Gene¬ 
ral, and emulating the noble example of his zeal and courage, sacrificed their lives 
to the honour and interests of their country. 

The Governor General in Council greatly regrets the loss of Lieutenant Colonel 
Maxwell of his Majesty’s 19th dragoons, who fell at the head of the British cavalry, 
bravely charging a large body of the enemy’s infantry. With the utmost concern 
his Excellency in Council records the names of the valuable and excellent officers 
who have fallen with glory at the battle of Assye, in achieving the complete defeat 
of the enemy, and in establishing the triumph of the British arms in the Dekan, 
Lieutenant Colonel Maxwell, Captains R. Boyle, H. Mackay, D. Aytone, A. Dyce, 

R. Macleod, 


*47 


APPENDIX D. 

R. Macleod, and T. Maxwell; Captain Lieutenants Steele and Fowler ; Lieutenants 
Bonomi, Griffith, J. Campbell, J. M, Campbell, J. Grant, R. Meilson, L. Campbell, 
M. Morris, and J. Douglas; Lieutenants Brown, Mavor, Perrie, and volunteer Tew. 

In testimony of the-high honour acquired by the army under the personal command 
of Major General Wellesley at the battle qf Assye, the Governor General in Council 
is pleased to order, that honorary colours, with a device properly suited to comme¬ 
morate that splendid victory, be presented to the corps of cavalry and infantry em¬ 
ployed on that glorious occasion. The names of the brave officers and men who fell 
at the battle of Assye will be commemorated, together with the circumstances of the 
action, upon the public monument to be erected at Fort William, to the memory of 
those wffio have fallen in the public service during the present campaign. 

The honorary colours granted by these orders to his Majesty’s 19th regiment of 
dragoons, and to the 74th and 78th regiments of foot, are to be used by those corps 
while they shall continue in India, or until his Majesty’s most gracious pleasure be 
signified through his Excellency the Commander in Chief. 

His Excellency the most noble the Governor General, Captain General and Com¬ 
mander in Chief of all the land forces serving in the East Indies, is pleased to direct, 
that these orders be publicly read to the troops under arms, at every station of the 
land forces in the East Indies, and that the European officers of the native corps do 
cause the same to be duly explained to the native officers and troops. 

By command of his Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General in Council, 

L. HOOK, Sec. to the Govt. Milt. Dept. 

By his Excellency the Captain General and Commander in Chief of the land forces, 

J. ARMSTRONG, Acting Military Secretary. 


Fort William , November 2, 1803. 

A Dispatch, of which the following is a copy, has been this day received, by his 
Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General, from his Excellency the Com¬ 
mander in Chief. 

To bis Excellency the Most Noble Marquis Wellesley, Governor General , &c. 

MY LORD, 

I have the honour to enclose for your Lordship’s information, correct returns of 
the ordnance, ammunition, &c. captured at this place. 

I have the honour to be. 

My Lord, 

Your Lordship’s most faithful humble servant, 

(Signed) G. LAKE. 

Head Quarters , Camp at Agra , Oct. 23, 1803. 



/ 


U 2 


Return 



APPENDIX D. 

Return of the Ordnance, Ammunition, &c. captured at the Attack of the Enemy*s Camp under 
the Walls of the Fort , and the Town oj Agra. 

Camp, October 22, 1803. 

2 brass 16 pounders ,n 

1 ^ ^ ditto* - (-Mounted on field carriages with limbers complete. 

1 ditto 3 ditto, ) 

26 pieces of different natures. 


26 tumbrils laden with ammunition for the above. 

29 ammunition carriages ditto ditto. 

REMARKS. 

The above ordnance appear to be perfectly te serviceable,” excepting one brass 
four-pounder, which is burst. 

The whole of the pieces are of the same manufacture as those captured at Delhi. 

(Signed) J. HORSFORD, 
Lieutenant Colonel commanding Artillery in the Field. 
A true copy, 

(Signed) G. A. F. LAKE, Mil. Sec. 


Returns of Ordnance, Ammunition , &V. captured in the Fort of Agra. 

Camp at Agra, October 22, 1803. 

BRASS GUNS. 

1 large gun.—This is the famous piece known by the name of the Great Gun at 
Agra. It is said to be composed of many metals, including all the 
precious ones. Its ball measures 22 inches : such a one, if of cast iron, 
weighs nearly 1 joolbs. 

1 72 pounder.—1 his gun is said to be of the same composition as the above one. 

1 8 pounder carronade 

1 3 ditto galloper 

2 2 ditto 

1 i* ditto 

3 1 ditto 

9 wall guns 
1 12 inch mortar 

1 8 ditto 

1 6 inch howitzer 

1 5! ditto 

1 4i ditto 

76 brass guns of different natures. 


1 20 pounder. 

1 10 ditto 

5 9 ditto 

x 8 ditto 

19 6 ditto 

6 5 ditto 

7 4 ditto 

2 3 ditto 

2 2 ditto 

5 1 ditto 

2 18 pounder carronades, 

1 16 ditto 



IRON 



APPENDIX D. 


I- 

32 pounder. 

IRON GUNS. 

6 

2 pounders 

I 

24 ditto 

4 

1 ditto 

I 

18 ditto 

1 [ 

2 pounder gallopers. 

4 

12 ditto 

4 

ii ditto 

1 

10 ditto 

4 

1 ditto 

1 

8 ditto 

26 

wall guns 

6 

6 ditto 



4 

5 ditto 

86 iron guns of different natures. 

6 

4 ditto 

33 

tumbrils. 

6 

3 ditto 





ABSTRACT. 


Brass pieces of different natures - - - 76 

Iron ditto ditto - - - 86 


REMARKS. 


162 


The brass pieces are in general of the same manufacture as those taken in the camp 
and town. Of the iron ones, several are what are termed bar guns. 

The whole are mounted, either on travelling carriages with elevating screws, or on 
country block carriages turning on a large pivot. Several spare carriages are ready 
to receive pieces which may be broken down. 

In the magazines are large quantities of gunpowder, shot, rockets, &c. &c. but the 
precise weight and number not yet ascertained. 

(Signed) J. HORSFORD, 

Lieutenant Colonel commanding Artillery in the Field. 

A true copy, (Signed) G. A. F. LAKE, Military Secretary. 


The following extracts of dispatches, received from Lieutenant Colonel Harcourt 
and Captain Morgan, are published for general information. 

To Captain Armstrong, Acting Military Secretary to his Excellency the Most Noble the 

Governor General. 


SIR, 

I request you will have the goodness to report to his Excellency the Most Noble 
the Governor General, that in obedience to his Excellency’s commands, I have pro¬ 
ceeded to Ganjam, and have this morning assumed the command of the field force 
assembled under his Excellency’s orders. 

I find this force sufficiently supplied with every requisite, to enable it to move 
immediately, and I shall in consequence proceed from hence to-morrow. 

I expect in three marches to reach the Manickapatam river, which I trust I shall 
pass on the day of my arrival; from thence it is two marches to Jaggernaut, where, 
from the necessary arrangements that must take place, I shall be detained some days. 

I have the honour to be. Sir, 

(Signed) 

In Camp at Pyaghee , September 11, 1803. 


Your most obedient servant, 
GEO. HARCOURT, Lieut. Col. 

To 



APPENDIX D. 

To Captain Armstrong, Acting Military Secretary to his Excellency the Most Noble the 

Governor General, 

SIR, 

I am now within a short march of the village of Manickapatam, where I am told 
five thousand infantry, and two thousand horse, are stationed to oppose my passage ; 
but I am not led to expect any serious difficulties in possessing myself to-morrow 
morning (or in the course of this night) of that post. 

1 have the honour to be. Sir, 

Your most obedient servant, 
(Signed) GEO. HARCOURT, Lieut. Colonel. 

Camp at Meetacoah , September 13, 1803. 


T0 Captain Armstrong, Acting Military Secretary to his Excellency the Most Nob 'e the 

Governor General . 


SIR, 

I have the greatest satisfaction in stating to you, for the information of his Ex¬ 
cellency the Most Noble the Governor General, that I shall not be detained at this 
place beyond to-morrow, when I shall move towards Jaggernaut, having in two 
d ^ys passed a river not fordable, near a mile in breadth, with all the troops, camp 
equipage, stores and cattle, &c. &c. I have also landed from the transport vessels 
two 18-pounders, with their carriages, &c. 

If it had not been for uncommon exertions from all corps, each individual and 
each department generally, I could not possibly have so expeditiously effected this 
operation. 

I shall march to-morrow to Nursingapatam, and from thence, on the following 
day, to Jaggernaut. 

I have the satisfaction to acquaint you, for the information of his Excellency the 
Most Noble the Governor General, that although I am encamped in the midst of a 
highly cultivated country, surrounded by villages, whose inhabitants have not de¬ 
serted them, or who having at the moment of our first taking possession of this part 
of the province of Cuttack, left their houses, are already returned to them, I have 
not received a single complaint. My bazar is supplied by the native inhabitants, 
and a degree of confidence and security is manifested, and I trust, from the measures 
1 have adopted, is completely experienced and established, which leaves me no more 
reason to doubt the continuance of that confidence than I have to doubt the conti¬ 
nuance of the security. I have the honour to be, Sir, 

Your most obedient servant, 
(Signed) GEO. HARCOURT, Lieut. Colonel. 

Camp at Manickapatam , Sept. 16,1803. 


In Camp at Jaggernaut , Sept. 18, 1803. 


SIR, 


I beg you will be pleased to state to his Excellency the Most Noble the Governor 
General, that we have this day taken possession of the city of Jaggernaut. 

Upon application from the chief Bramins of the Pagoda, I have afforded them 
guards (of Hindoos), and a most satisfactory confidence is shewn by the Bramins, 
Priests, and Officers of the Pagoda, and by the inhabitants of Jaggernaut, both in 
their present situation, and the future protection of the British Government. 


From 


APPENDIX D. 

From the general good conduct of the troops under my command, and from the 
strict attention which has been paid to my orders for preventing all interference 
with the inhabitants and natives, framed under the express injunctions of his Excel¬ 
lency the Most Noble the Governor General, not a single complaint has been made to 
me ; though I have, by every practicable means, invited a direct communication of 
the least deviation from this important duty. 

I humbly beg leave to congratulate his Excellency the Most Noble the Governor 
General on this important acquisition to the British possessions in India. 

I have the honour to be, Sir, 

Your most obedient and humble servant. 

To Captain Armstrong , GEO. HARCOURT, Lieut. Col. 

Acting Military Secretary , &c. Iffc. 

r 

SIR > Laid Bang Fort, Cuttack^Oct. 24, 1803. 

On the 24th ultimo, I marched with the force under my command from Jagger- 
naut to Ahmedpoor, and I did not reach my ground of encampment without great 
difficulty, owing to the extreme badness of the weather, the inundated state of the 
country, and the rise of the nullahs crossing my line of march. 

My advanced guard, under the command of Captain Hutchinson, of the 20th 
Bengal regiment, was several times annoyed by thb enemy, but from the able manage¬ 
ment of that officer, our loss was not severe : it consisted in three men wounded, as 
appears in the enclosed general return. The loss of the enemy, I understand, was 
considerable. 

The difficulties that impeded the march of the line detained the heavy guns and 
baggage for five days; when I proceeded to Beirpoorshuttumpoor, where I was 
again detained by the badness of the road and weather until the 3d instant. 

Having thought it expedient to order a force in advance from Beirpoorshuttum¬ 
poor, I detached the acting field officer of the day, with orders to occupy a position 
near Muckundpoor, which service again fell to the lot of Captain Hutchinson: im¬ 
mediately on his leaving the camp he discovered the- enemy on his flanks in consi¬ 
derable force, both of horse and infantry, but he, notwithstanding much opposition, 
most completely carried my orders into effect. I regret to state that his loss was 
not inconsiderable, it consisted in two killed and twenty-one wounded. The loss of 
the enemy was very great from their being frequently exposed to a heavy discharge 
of grape from the six-pounder with Captain Hutchinson. 

I cannot omit reporting to you for his Excellency’s information, the conduct of 
Captain Hutchinson was most steady, able, and highly meritorious. 

On the night of the 4th, I moved towards Muckundpoor, when the advance under 
Lieutenant Colonel Clayton was again opposed by the enemy j bpt from a well- 
directed and a very destructive fire they were completely dispersed, whilst our loss 
consisted of only one pioneer wounded. 

From Muckundpoor to the banks of the Kutjoory, we met with no opposition 
from the enemy, and my letters of the 11 th and following days completely detail my 
subsequent operations. I have the honour to be. Sir, 

Your most obedient and humble servant, 

(Signed) GEO. HARCOURT, 

Lieut. Colonel commanding in Cuttack, and Military Secretary 
to his Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General. 

Return, 


APPENDIX D. 


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Captain Hurlstone,of His Majesty’s 22d Regiment. (Signed) GEORGE HARCOURT, 

Captain Kennv, of the 1st Battalion 19th Madras Regiment. Lieut. Col. commanding in Cuttack. 

Lieutenant Faithfull, of the Bengal Artillery. 



























































APPENDIX D. 


J 53 


To Captain Armstrong, Acting Military Secretary , &c. &c. 

Sir, English Factory House, Bala sore. Sept. 22, 1803. 

. MY letter of the 20th from the entrance of the Balasore river, and that of last 
night, to Lieutenant Colonel Fergusson, copies of which I requested might be sent 
to you for the information of his Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General, 
&cc. &c. will, in a small degree, have apprized you of the operations of the detach¬ 
ment which his Lordship was pleased to honour me with the command of for.the 
last two days ; but for his better information I shall proceed to state circumstances 
in detail from the fleet of transports leaving Kedgeree on the 14th instant. 

Owing to adverse winds, the transports, &c. as per margin *, only made the 
Neelgharee Hills in the afternoon of the 17th instant, distant from the bar, at the 
entrance of the Balasore river, about sixteen miles. 

Early in the morning of the 18th, Mr. Wright, the pilot, left the Alexander, and 
proceeded to explore the bar, and if possible, obtain by amicable means some na¬ 
tive pilots, but without effect; as at Bulramghurry House, near to the entrance into 
the river, was a post of Marhatta infantry, who on failing to entice him on shore, lired 
into his boat without doing any injury. 

Mr. Wright then returned to the bar, and with the assistance of Mr. Pike, the 
pilot from the George, in another boat, by his perseverance, zeal, and superior 
abilities, found out the channel, and took the proper bearings, &c. for conducting the 
transports over it. 

Early in the morning of the 19th, we observed the pilots returning to the Alex¬ 
ander, when the troops on board the Alexander and Anne were shifted to the 
George, Charles, Fairlie, and Lizard, with the least possible delay. About ten 
o’clock, those transports, with the gun vessel (leaving the Alexander and Anne, with 
the sick of the detachment, and the whole of the baggage, &c. at anchor) moved 
down for the entrance of the river, but were obliged to anchor close to'the bar, to 
wait for the next day’s flood-tide ; soon after which came on a severe gale of wind, 
which continued until the flood had pretty well made, about nine o’clock in the 
morning of the 20th ; when the vessels as per margin f crossed the bar, entered the 
Balasore river, and anchored nearly opposite Bulramghurry House; leaving the 
Lizard brig at anchor on the outside of the bar, Mr. Wright being in dread of her 
striking on it from the report of her draft of water ; however in passing the bar, we 
found to our great satisfaction full fourteen feet water on it at the height of the flood. 

One of the Jndiamen’s long boats was left with the Lizard, when the gale should 
subside a little to bring off the two six-pounders, &c. and the remaining part of the 
detachment of artillery, proportion of ammunition, &c. and which joined us in the 
river about five o’clock in the evening. 

The party of Mahrattas stationed at Bulramghurry House, on seeing the vessels 
coming over the bar, fled towards Balasore. 

The Lizard hired brig being much lightened by the detachment of artillery, two 
guns, ammunition, &c. taken out of her, Mr. Wright is confident she can come 
over the bar without much risk, and Mr. Pike, with another pilot, is left with 
her for that purpose. She could not yesterday attempt it for want of wind, 
but I am in great hopes it has been accomplished this day, or will be to-morrow. 

The inhabitants from the villages adjacent to the entrance of the river flocked to 

* Alexander, Anne, George, Charles, Fairlie, Lizard hired brig; Scourge gun-vessel, and two long 
f Scourge gun-vessel, George, Charles, and Fairlie. 


our 


54 


APPENDIX D. 

our vessels, and put on board each a native pilot, to conduct them up the river to 
this place; expressing their extreme abhorrence of the savage Marhattas, and con¬ 
gratulating each other on the happy day that brings them under the British Go¬ 
vernment. 

Between six and seven o’clock P. M. the fleet got under weigh to proceed up the 
river, but from the darkness of the night, and a very heavy fall of rain, with the 
native pilots objecting to proceed, they were obliged almost immediately to come to 
anchor again. 

On the morning of the 21st, the vessels came up as far as possible, but finding 
they made but little progress, and hearing different reports that a party of the Mar¬ 
hattas who had been detached from Balasore to support their posts at the Ghauts 
between this and Jellasore, was returning by forced marches to the defence, or to 
plunder and destroy the town (the latter the most probable report), 1 came to the 
determination, with the most cordial concurrence of Captain Peter Grant, of imme¬ 
diately quitting the gun vessel and transports, and proceeding up the river as far as 
possible, with two six-pounders, &c. and as many fighting men as the boats would 
hold. After two hours great exertion we arrived at a clear spot of ground, the ebb¬ 
tide having set in. We were told by some of the inhabitants that it was only four 
miles by land to Balasore, but that it would take two or three more flood-tides to 
carry us up to it. I deemed it necessary to consult with Captain Peter Grant on 
the practicability of carrying the town, &c. without our guns, and he being fully of 
opinion with me (on our seeing the state of the country leading to it) that no time 
should be lost in making the attempt, in consequence of which we landed near 300 
from the boats, rank and file, and directed our march towards the town over paddy 
fields inundated from one to three feet in water. 

On approaching the town the detachment halted to rest and refresh the men, 
when I made the best disposition of my force that I was able for the attack. 

About this period intelligence was brought me, that the military commander of the 
enemy, by name Nana, had put the Fouzdar, Moro Pundit, in confinement, because 
he wished to come over to the English; and that Nana, with the force under his 
command, was determined to dispute our getting possession of the town and factory 
house. 

The entrance into the town, and until near the factory house, is one continued 
strong defile, which we soon found was lined with both cavalry and infantry, by 
their firing on our advanced party ; but that party pushing forward until very near 
them, and a flanking party 1 had detached, approaching them at the same pe¬ 
riod, both giving a steady and well directed fire j the enemy was instantly routed 
Trom their first position with considerable loss ; they say in all ten or twelve men 
fell. The detachment kept moving forward, under a tedious fire from the tops of 
houses, the entrances of lanes, and from behind walls and heights, returning a spi¬ 
rited fire at intervals until it gained the factory house with the loss only of one sepoy 
killed, and three wounded, when the whole business subsided. 

Parties were immediately posted in all directions outside of the factory house, to 
keep in awe some of the enemy, who were sniping at us, and from which I attribute 
his not being able to annoy us further. 

I had written a letter to Moro Pundit, the Fouzdar, from the entrance of the 
Balasore river, advising him of my having a letter for him from his Excellency the 
most noble the Governor General, &c. and wished he would point out some means of 
my communicating with him, and for which purpose a gentleman with me would be 

ready 


APPENDIX D. 

ready td meet him, or any person he should depute. I received in return a verbal 
answer of Salam, and that he had received my letter. 

His Excellency’s letter I sent, immediately after gaining possession of the factory 
house, to a part of the outside of the town called the Marhatta Fort, to Mono 
Pundit; but only a similar letter to the foregoing was returned. The rr.en who 
carried the letter informed me, that the enemy was quitting it with precipitation, 
and at day-break this morning I took possession of it. 

We found in it three old unserviceable iron guns on decayed carriages, one appa¬ 
rently a six-pounder, another a four-pounder, and a one-pounder. No shot, or am¬ 
munition of any description. A small quantity of grain of different kinds, and 
two chests, containing papers relative to the Sirkar, which shall be taken the greatest 
care of. 

I have directed Ensign Wilson, of the engineers, to report on the state of the post, 
which is certainly much superior in strength and convenience to the one we now 
possess ; likewise on the factory house and compound; which shall be sent to you 
in the course of a few days. 

The proclamation in English, with a translation of the same in Hindoostanee, 
were issued this morning, and similar ones sent round and proclaimed by beat of 
drum through the town and the villages near ; and it is with peculiar pleasure I re¬ 
port the inhabitants returning to every house in great numbers. 

Many of the principal inhabitants, merchants, &c. waited on me last night and 
this morning, expressing uncommon satisfaction at being taken under the protection 
of the British Government. 

1 have received the most marked attention, and some little information respect¬ 
ing the flight of the enemy, from Mr. Princely the Danish resident at this place. 

By this day’s dawk, I have communicated to Lieutenant Colonel Campbell, or officer 
commanding at Cuttack, my being in possession of this place. See. &c. But I much 
fear the communication is not open, no dawk for the last three, days having arrived 
here from the southward ; but Captain Grant will endeavour this evening to dispatch 
by a private hircarrah a duplicate of the same. 

The dawk arrived this day, (and has always been regular) from Calcutta, but I 
have received no letter from Lieutenant Colonel Fergusson. To-morrow I shall cer¬ 
tainly receive an answer to my letter to him of the 20th, when every means in our 
power shall be taken to facilitate his approach to this place, by pushing towards him 
a party to collect boats, &c. &c. at the different nullahs* 

I have just received accounts, which I have every reason to confide in, that the 
enemy who were stationed between this and Jellasore, at the different Ghauts, are 
flying through the jungles to gain the hills, and I sincers believe in three days morq 
not a single Marhatta will be found between this and Jellasore. 

The gun vessel and transports are not yet in sight, owing to the very strong cur¬ 
rent that prevails in the river. 

To-morrow I shall communicate further to you, on this, and the mode to be 
adopted for bringing the sick of the detachment, and the whole of the baggage, 
from the ships Alexander and'Anne, lying in the roads. 

Permit me to request the favour of your recommending to his Excellency, the offi¬ 
cers and men of my detachment, who conducted themselves with great steadiness, 
and I may add gallantry, when I consider the concealed and heavy fire from near six 
hundred of the enemy, which they would have sustained, had they not been dis¬ 
lodged by my advance and flanking parties. 

X 2 It 


APPENDIX D. 

It is, I believe, needless for me to expatiate on the merits of Captain Peter Grant; 
but I must observe he has completely answered the views of his Excellency, and 
that I should deem his advice and assistance of the utmost importance, on the most 
trying occasion. 

I have the honour to be, Sir, your most obedient humble servant, 

(Signed) THOMAS MORGAN, 

Captain Commanding the Detachment . 


On the 30th September, Captain Morgan detached two companies of sepoys, un¬ 
der the command of Lieutenant Slye, to the town of Soorong, about twenty miles 
to the southward of Balasore, for the purpose of dislodging a party of the enemy, 
stationed near that place, and of opening a communication in the direction of Cut¬ 
tack. On the first of October, Lieutenant Slye attacked and defeated a party of the 
enemy, which had been posted at a village a short distance from Soorong. The 
detachment under Lieutenant Slye, having been reinforced by another company 
from Balasore, took possession of Soorong, on the 3d of October, without further 
opposition. 

On the 4th of October, a detachment of native infantry, with a detachment from 
his Excellency the Governor General’s body guard, under the command of his Lieu¬ 
tenant Colonel Fergusson, which had entered the province of Cuttack from Jellasorej 
arrived at Balasore, without opposition. 

On the ioth, Colonel Fergusson proceeded towards Cuttack, at which place a part 
of his detachment had arrived on the 2d October. During the whole of his march, 
Lieutenant Colonel Fergusson received every assistance from the inhabitants, who 
expressed the utmost satisfaction at the prospect of being relieved from the oppres¬ 
sions to which they were subjected by the Marhattas, and of being speedily placed 
under the protection of the British Government. 

On the 6th of September, a detachment of British troops, under the command 
of Lieutenant Colonel P. Powell, crossed the Jumna, and entered the province of 
Bundelcund. 

On the 16th of September, Lieutenant Colonel Powell was joined by Rajah Him- 
mut Behaudur, with his forces near Teroa. 

The united detachments reached the river Cane, on the 23d of September. The 
troops of Shumshere Behaudur were encamped on the opposite bank of the river in 
considerable strength. 

Having reduced feveral forts in the vicinity of his camp, and having establifhed the 
Britifh authority in the territory lying between the Jumna and the Cane, Colonel 
Powell, accompanied by Himmut Behaudur, crossed the latter river on the 1 oth 
of October. 

The following extract of a letter from Colonel Powell, is published by command of 
his Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General in Council. 

To Lieutenant Colonel J. Gerard, Adjutant General, Head Quarters . 

Sir 

IN my dispatch of yesterday, his Excellency the Commander in Chief will have 
been informed of my having crossed the Cane River, and of the communication 
which immediately thereupon took place betwixt the Nawaub Shumshere Behaudur, 
and myself. 

After the dispatch of my letter of yesterday, I received another intimation from 

Shumshere’s 



*57 


APPENDIX D. 

Shumshere’s Vakeel, informing me of his master’s being forced by the persuasion 
of his Sirdars, to risk an engagement with the detachment under my command. 

I his morning I accordingly made the necessary arrangements for meeting him. 
At half past ten o’clock, the detachment, after a most fatiguing march of six hours 
over a very uneven country, came in sight of Shumshere’s army, drawn out in line 
of battle upon this ground, and their camp all struck. Shumshere’s line covered 
a great extent,, and as it was advantageously posted, and they appeared advancing, 
I had every expectation of a general action. I advanced in columns of battalions, 
within 1200 yards of the enemy; I deployed into line with an intention of 
advancing in that form as far as the ground would permit; but just as the line 
was formed, a gun of Rajah Himmut Behaudur’s was fired, which was mistaken as 
a signal for opening our guns, which immediately commenced a cannonade. After 
five minutes firing, the guns were again limbered, in consequence of heavy ploughed 
fields, which rendered it impossible to get them along by the drag ropes. When 
advanced five hundred yards more, our guns recommenced firing. Those of the 
enemy had till now continued playing upon our line, with little or no effect, but 
soon after our guns opened the seebnd time, those of Shumshere ceased firing, 
whereupon our guns were again limbered, and the whole line advanced as fast as 
possible, upon which Shumshere’s army began to retire ; I therefore ordered 
Captain Webber, with the squadron of cavalry and galloper, with 500 of Rajah 
Himmut Behaudur’s horse, to pursue the enemy, which they did for three miles, 
and got within reach of firing upon them with the galloper, which opened upon 
a body of 1500 horse, with great effect, when they continued to retreat at too 
great a speed for their pursuers to come up with them, whose horses from being 
twelve hours saddled were completely jaded. 

Our loss, as far as I have learnt, does not exceed eight or ten natives killed and 
wounded; but amongst the casualties I am sorry to inform you, that Captain 
Farley Smith is included ; he was killed by the first cannon shot from the enemy. 

At two o’clock P.M. I encamped on the spot where Shumshere’s camp stood, 
and it is my intention to pursue him to-morrow morning to the place where I 
understand he is gone. 

I have further to desire you will report to his Excellency, that the behaviour of 
the whole of the detachment during this day, was such as to merit my entire ap¬ 
probation. The following are the articles taken from the enemy:—l'wo small 
guns, two tumbrils with ammunition, fourteen horses, and ten gun bullocks. 

The Rajah has had seventeen men, and sixteen horses, killed and wounded. 
The loss of the enemy I have not yet ascertained. 

I have the honour to be. Sir, 

Your most obedient servant, 

(Signed) G. POWELL, Lieut. Col. commanding at Bundelcund. 

Camp at Capsah , October 13, 1803. 

Accounts have been since received, that Shumshere Behaudur has crossed the 
river Betwah, and evacuated the province of Bundelcund. 

Published by command of his Excellency the Most Noble 
the Governor General in Council, 

J. LUMSDEN, Chief Secretary to the Government. 

Fort 


appendix a 

Fort William , November 13, 1803. 

A Dispatch, of which the following is a copy, has . this day been received from 
his Excellency the Commander in Chief, by his Excellency the Most Noble the 
Governor General. 

To bis Excellency the Most Noble Marquis Wellesley, Governor General , 13 c. &c. 

Camp four miles to the IVestvaard of Cassowly , November I st, 1803. 

My Lord, 

I HAVE the honour to inform your Excellency, that I marched from A.gra on the 
27th ultimo, in pursuit of the Marhatta force, which was composed of the brigades 
which had been detached from the Dekan in the early part of the campaign, and of 
a few battalions which had effected their escape from Delhi. I was the more 
anxious to defeat this corps from its being furnished with a numerous artillery. 
Owing to the detention the army met with from a heavy fall of rain, it was not 
until the 29th that it reached a camp to the westward of Futtipoor. From intel¬ 
ligence I received here of the rapid manner in which the Marhatta army was 
moving, I determined to leave the heavy artillery, with a proper detachment of 
infantry for its protection, and to pursue the enemy by forced marches, in the hope 
of being able the more speedily-to come up with him. On the 31st, the army en¬ 
camped at a short distance from the ground which the enemy had quitted the same 
morning. Possessed of this intelligence, I resolved to make an effort to overtake 
him with all the cavalry of the army, in the intention of delaying him by a light 
engagement, until the infantry should be able to come up. To this end the cavalry 
marched at twelve last night, and having performed a distance of more than forty 
miles in twenty-four hours, came up with the enemy this morning soon after day 
break. From the sudden manner in which I came upon the enemy, I ventured to 
ipalce an attack with the cavalry alone, supported by the mounted artillery, but 
finding him too advantageously posted, to hope for complete success without too 
much risk, I drew the cavalry out of reach of cannon shot, and waited the arrival 
of the infantry. Soon after their arrival, I made a general attack upon the enemy’s 
position, the resulj; of which I have the satisfaction of informing your Excellency has 
been a complete, though I* sincerely lament to add, dear bought vidtory. The 
enemy were totally defeated, with the loss of all their cannon, tumbrils, and 
baggage ; but tliis important advantage has only been gained by the loss of many 
valuable officers, the principal of whom are Major General Ware, Colonel Vande- 
leur, Major Griffiths, Major Campbell, the Deputy Quarter Master General, and my 
Aid de Camp Lieutenant Duval, who gloriously fell in this honourable contest. 

I have not been able to ascertain the exact account of our loss in killed and 
wounded, returns of which, with a detailed account of this important affair, I shall 
have the honour of transmitting to your Excellency by the first opportunity, 

I have the honour to be, my Lord, 

Your Lordship’s most obedient and humble servant, 

(Signed) G. LAKE. 

By authentic advices received from camp, it appears that the victory was most 
complete and glorious. All the enemy’s battalions are cut up, or taken, and near 
seventy guns, their whole baggage, bazars, &c. are in our possession. The Com¬ 
mander 


APPENDIX D. 

mander in Chief had two horses killed under him, and Major Lake is severely, but 
not dangerously wounded. 

Published by command of his Excellency the Most Noble 
the Governor General in Council, 

J. LUMSDEN, Chi-ef Secretary to the Government. 

General Orders , by bis Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General, and 
Captain General of all the Land Forces serving in the East Indies. 

Fort William , November 13, 1803. 

A royal salute and three vollies of musquetry to be fired at all the stations of the 
army, in honour of the glorious and important victory obtained on the 1st of No¬ 
vember, 1803, near Cassowly in Hindostan, by the army under the personal com¬ 
mand of his Excellency General Lake, over a large body of the enemy’s regular 
infantry and cavalry, in which the enemy were entirely defeated, with the loss of all 
their guns, tumbrils, and baggage. 

By command of his Excellency, 

J. ARMSTRONG, Acting Military Secretary. 


Fort William , November 15, 1803. 

A Dispatch, of which the following is a copy, has this day been received from his 
Excellency the Commander in Chief, by his Excellency the Most Noble the Go¬ 
vernor General. 

To bis Excellency the Most Noble the Marquis Wellesley, &c. 

My Lord, 

IN my dispatch of yesterday’s date, I did myself the honour to state for your 
Lordship’s information, some particulars of the march of the army from Agra to 
the camp it now occupies, together with the general result of the action which took 
place yesterday. 1 now h<tve the honour to send your Excellency a more detailed 
account, of that affair. 

After a forced march of twenty-five miles, which was performed by the cavalry 
in a little more than six hours, I came up with the enemy, who appeared to be upon 
their retreat, and in such confusion, that I was tempted to try the effect of an attack 
upon him with the cavalry alone. By cutting the embankment of a large reservoir 
of water, the enemy had rendered the road very difficult to pass, which caused a 
considerable delay in the advance of the cavalry; of this the enemy had availed 
himself to take an advantageous post, having his right upon a rivulet, which we 
had to cross, and his left upon the village of Laswaree ; the whole of his front was 
amply provided with artillery. I was prevented from discovering this change in 
the situation of the enemy by the quantity of dust which, when once clear of the 
water, totally obscured him from our sight; I therefore proceeded in the exe¬ 
cution of my design, by which I hoped to prevent his retreat into the hills, and 
secure his guns; directing the advanced guard, and first brigade, commanded by 
Colonel Vandeleur, upon the point where 1 had observed the enemy in motion, but 
which proved to be the left of his new position ; the remainder of the cavalry I 
ordered to attack in succession, as soon as they could form after passing the rivulet. 

The charge of the advanced guard under Major Griffith, and that of the first 
brigade, led by Colonel Vandeleur, was made with much gallantry; the enemy’s 
line was forced, and the cavalry penetrated into the village; they still however 

continued 





APPENDIX D. 

continued to be exposed to a most galling fire of cannon and musquetry, which, as 
it was impossible under such circumstances to form the squadrons for a fresh attack, 
determined me to withdraw them. The guns which had fallen into our hands 
could not be brought away, from the want of bullocks. In this charge. Colonel 
Vandeleur fell, mortally wounded ; in him the service has lost a most valuable officer. 

The attacks of the other brigades were conducted with the same spirit, but after 
taking several of the enemy’s guns, being still fired upon, without being able to 
discover the enemy, they retired in good order, retaining possession of a part of the 
artillery. In the performance of this service, the third brigade, consisting ofhisMa- 
jefly’s 29th regiment and the fourth regiment of native cavalry, under the command 
of that meritorious officer. Colonel Macan, met my entire approbation. 

The infantry having marched at three A. M. arrived upon the banks of the rivulet 
about eleven o’clock. After so long a march, it was absolutely necessary to allow 
some time for the men to refresh themselves, during which the enemy sent in to say 
that, if certain terms were allowed them, they were willing to surrender their guns. 
Anxious to prevent the further effusion of blood, I directed a letter to be written, 
acquiescing in their proposals, and allowing them an hour to decide; in the mean 
time the several columns for the attack were formed. The infantry formed in two 
columns upon the left; the first, composed of the right wing under the command 
of Major General Ware, was destined to gain the enemy’s right flank, which he 
had thrown back since the morning, leaving a considerable space between it and 
the rivulet, and to assault the village of Lasware'e; the second,"composed of the left 
wing under Major General St. John, was to support the first column. The 3d bri¬ 
gade of cavalry, under Colonel Macan, was to support the infantry; the second 
brigade, under Lieutenant Colonel Vandeleur, was detached to the right, to be ready 
to take advantage of any confusion in the enemy’s line, and to attack him upon 
his retreat; the brigade under Colonel Gordon composed the reserve, and was 
formed between the 2d and 3d brigades. As many of the field pieces as could be 
brought up, with the gallopers attached to the cavalry, formed four different batteries. 

At the expiration of the time which I had allowed the enemy to decide, I ordered 
the infantry to advance; as soon as they became exposed to the enemy’s guns, the 
four batteries commenced their lire, and continued to advance, though opposed by 
a great superiority, both in number.and weight of metal. 

When the 76th regiment, which headed the attack, had arrived at the point from 
which I intended to make the charge, they were so much exposed-to the enemy’s fire, 
and losing men so fast, that I judged it preferable to proceed to the attack with that 
regiment, and as many of the native infantry as had closed to the front, to losing 
time in waiting until the remainder of the column should be able to form, the march 
of which had been retarded by impediments in the advance. 

As soon asthis handful of heroes were arrived within reach of the enemy’s canister 
shot, a most tremendous fire was opened upon 'them. The loss they sustained was 
very severe, and sufficient alone to prevent a regular advance; at this moment the 
enemy’s cavalry attempted to charge, but were repulsed by the fire of this gallant 
body; they however rallied at a short distance, and assumed so menacing a posture, 
that I thought it advisable to order them to be attacked by the cavalry; 1 this service 
fell to the share of his Majesty’s 29th regiment, commanded by Captain Wade (Major 
Griffith having at that instant been unfortunately killed by a cannon shot), and was 
performed with the greatest gallantry, and in a manner which entitles Captain Wade, 
and every officer and soldier in the regiment to my warmest acknowledgments. 

The 


APPENDIX D. 

The remainder of the first column of infantry arrived just in time to join in the 
attack of the enemy’s reserve, which was formed in the rear of his line, with its left 
upon the village of Laswaree, and its right thrown back. 

About this time Major General Ware fell dead, his head being carried off by a 
cannon shot. He was a gallant officer, and one whose loss I deeply lament. On 
his death the command of this column devolved upon Colonel Mac Donald, who, 
though wounded, continued to acquit himself in this important command very 
much to my satisfaction. 

The enemy opposed a vigorous resistance to the last, and it was not until he had 
lost his guns that he abandoned his post. Even then his left wing did not fly, but 
attempted to retreat in good order; in this, however, they were frustated by his 
Majesty’s 27th regiment, and the 6th regiment of native cavalry, under the com¬ 
mand of Lieutenant Colonel Vandeleur, who broke in upon the column, cut several 
to pieces, and drove the rest in prisoners, with the whole of the baggage. 

Severe as the loss has been which we have sustained in the achievement of this 
complete victory, that of the enemy has been far greater. With the exception of 
upwards of 2000 who have been taken prisoners (of which number I have only 
detained the principal officers, amounting to forty-eight), I have reason to believe 
that very few escaped the general slaughter. 

It would be a violation of my feelings were I to close my dispatch without bearing 
testimony to the gallant conduct of Major Mac Leod and Captain Robertson of his 
Majesty’s 76th regiment, and of every officer and soldier of that inestimable corps, 
in the attack of the village of Laswaree. Major Gregory, too, at the head of the 
ad battalion 12th regiment of native infantry, in the same service displayed a con¬ 
duct highly meritorious. 

In the list of those officers who particularly distinguished themselves, I cannot 
omit the names of Lieutenant Wallace of his Majesty’s 27th regiment, who was 
entrusted with the command of a battery of gallopers, nor that of Lieutenant Dixon 
of the 6th regiment native cavalry, who was employed in the same service. 

The whole of my staff upon this, as upon every former occasion, are entitled to a 
large share of praise, and to my warmest gratitude. The zeal which they displayed 
upon this memorable day, is too plainly proved by the enclosed returns of the killed 
and wounded. I have sustained a great loss by the death of Major William Camp¬ 
bell, the Deputy Quarter Master General, and by that of my Aid-de-camp, Lieute¬ 
nant Duval, of his Majesty’s 19th light dragoons, who was a young man of great 
promise. 

Herewith, I have the honour to enclose returns of the ordnance and colours 
which were captured upon this occasion. 

I have^the honour to be, my Lord, 

Your Lordship’s most faithful and humble servant, 

(Signed) G. LAKE. 

Head Quarters , Camp, near Laswaree, November a., 1803. 

P. S. In the hurry which I wrote my dispatch of yesterday’s date, I fear I did not 
explain to your Lordship, that the enemy’s corps which we have defeated, com¬ 
prized the whole of the fifteen regular battalions which had been sent from the Dekan, 
under the command of Monsieur Dudernaigue, and two battalions of the same 
description which had escaped from Delhi. I therefore have the satisfaction of con¬ 
gratulating your Excellency, upon the annihilation of the whole of the regular force 
in Scindiah’s service, commanded by French officers. 

(Signed) G. LAKE. 


.102 


APPENDIX D. 

4 * 


Return of Officers and Men killed and •wounded in the Action of the 1st November 1S03. 


> V 

KILLED. 

HORSES. 

1 

s 

'cT 

s 

T 

e 

Q 

O 

o 

c 

c 

“o 

a 

s 

a 

o 

2 

u 

C 

*cT 

S 

| Captains. 

| Lieutenants. 

w 

1 

1 

U 

o 

1 

o» 

i 

o 

1 

1 

2 

Serjeants. 

CO 

L 

C 

1 

| Rank and File. 

4 

E 

u 

B 

£ 

3 

- 

Q 

| Subadars. 

CO 

u 

x 

— 

"7 

£ 

| Havildars. 

J2 

*?5 

| Privates. 

CO 

M 

I 

o 

CO 

PC 

q 

p 

CO 

U 

PS 

o 

X 

- 

# 3 

X 

M 

L 

u 

>> 

CO 

Total killed. 

KILLED. 

WOUNDED. 

MISSING. 

General Staff ... 


1 



1 


i 


















3 




6th Regiment Light Dragoons 



i 


. 

i 







16 













74 

24 

IS 

27th ditto ditto 

• 










1 


4 












5 

23 

36 

29 

29th ditto ditto 

- 




1 



2 

1 


3 


12 












19j 

78 

24 

10 

76th Regiment Foot - 

- 






2 




6 


35 












43 




Artillery - - - 

- 











4 










3 



7 | 




1st Regiment Native Cavalry 

- 








1 








i 








2 

27 

14 


2d ditto ditto ... 

- 

























21 

13 

IS 

3d ditto ditto - - - 

. 

















i 







1 

15 

9 

10 

4th ditto ditto 

L 
















i 

i 

8 






io{ 

23 

27 

22 

6th ditto ditto 

- 


















4 






4 

16 

7 

20l 

2d Bat. 9th Regt. Nat. Infantry 



















4 






4 




2d Bat. 8th Regt. ditto 

- 


















1 






1 




1st ditto 12th ditto - 

- 


















2 






2 




2d ditto 12th ditto - 

- 






, 










2 

4 

15 






21 




1st ditto 15th ditto - 

- 






1 










1 


9 






11 




2d ditto ditto - 

- 










1 




i 




2 






4 




6 Companies 16th ditto 

- 
















2 


15 






17 




1 Company 1st Bat. 11th ditto 

- 




























Grand Total 

1 

i 

2 

11 4 

2 

2 

ii 

4 67 

i 

7 6 60 



3| 


172 

277 

154 

122 


/ 











WOUNDED. 









”x 

G 

c 

£• 

o 

*rT 

i 

o 

5 

| Lieutenant Colonel. 

X 

•— 

C 

rT 

2 

| Captains. 

| Lieutenants. 

U 

o 

X 

5 

s 

•“7 

&■ 

| Cornets. 

| 

G 

w 

Serjeants. 

(j 

1 

X 

2 

Rank and File. 

'J 

£ 

o 

G 

| 

U 

Q 

X 

-C 

X 

JO 

CO 

| Jemadars. 

£ 

1 

= 

3 

1 

Privates. 

c 

X 

o 

co 

•fl 

"rt 

"C 

G 

X 

u 

X 

s 

X 

o 

5Q 

CO 

o 

CO 

Total wounded. 

General Staff, ... 

. 



lj 1 

i 



















3 

8th Regiment Light Dragoons, 

- 






2 




3 


31 












36 

27th ditto ditto, - - 

- 





3 

1 

2 



2 


35 












43 

29th ditto ditto, - - 

- 





1 

2 

1 


6 


S3 












43 

76th Regiment Foot, ... 

- 





1 

3 




16 


149 

1 











170 

Artillery, ..... 

% - 











6 










5 



11 

1 st Regiment Native Cavalry, 







1 









1 

3 


12 






17 

2d ditto ditto, .... 

- 

















1 

9 






10 

3d ditto ditto, - . 

- 














1 




8 






9 

4th ditto ditto, .... 

- 






1 









2 

o 


21 






26 

6th ditto ditto, .... 

- 








1 










11 






12 

2d Bat. 9th Regiment Native Infantry 

- 
















i 

o 

9 






12 

•2d Bat. 8th Regiment ditto, 

- 
















2 

1 

19 






22 

1st ditto 12th ditto, ... 

. 









1 






1 

2 

3 

14 






21 

2d ditto 12th ditto, ... 

- 




l 

I 

1 








1 

1 

o 

! 

72 






80 

1st ditto 15th ditto, ... 

. 


i 













1 

2 

1 

22 




1 


28 

2d ditto ditto, ... 

- 














1 


4 

2 

26 






S3 

6 Companies 16th ditto, 

- 



1 











1 


7 


54 






70 

1 Company 1st Bat. 11th ditto. 

- 






1 









* 

1 

1 

2 






6 

Grand Total 

1 

i 

2 

2 

• 

12 

3 

1 

1'27 

6 248 

1 

4 

7 26119.279 



5 

1 

1652 













































































































































APPENDIX D. 

List of Officers killed in the Action of the first of November , 1803. 

Major General CHARLES WARE. 

General Staff.—Major William Campbell, Deputy Quarter Master General;—• 
Lieutenant Duval, Aid-de-camp to the Commander in Chief. 

His Majesty’s 8th regiment light dragoons.—Colonel T‘. P. Vandeleur;—Captain 
Story. 

His Majesty’s 29th regiment light dragoons.—Major Griffith;—Cornet Fitzge¬ 
rald;—Quarter Master Philley;—Quarter Master R. Mac Goughy. 

1 st regiment native cavalry.—Cornet Coxwell. 

His Majesty’s 76th regiment foot.—Lieutenant and Adjutant Meulh;—Lieutenant 
Hurd. 

1st battalion 15th regiment native infantry;—Lieutenant Lambert. 

, List of Officers wounded in the Action of the first of November , 1803. 

General Staff.—Lieutenant Colonel Gerard, Adjutant General;—Major G. A. F. 
Lake, Secretary to the Commander in Chief;—Captain J. Campbell, gram agent 
attached to head quarters;—Lieutenant Ashhurst, commanding the escort with his 
Excellency the Commander in Chief. 

His Majesty’s 8th regiment light dragoons.—Lieutenant Lyndon,—since dead;— 
Lieutenant Wellard. 

His Majefty’s 27th regiment light dragoons.—Captain White;—Captain 
Mylne;—Captain Sandys;—Lieutenant Gore, Major of Brigade. 

His Majesty’s 29th regiment light dragoons.—Lieutenant Holstead—since dead;— 
Captain Sloane;—Lieutenant Thorne;—Quarter Master Tallen. 

1st regiment native cavalry.—Lieutenant Cornish. 

4th regiment native cavalry.—Lieutenant Reid. 

6th regiment native cavalry.—Cornet Dickson. 

His Majesty’s 76th regiment foot.—Captain Robertson;—Lieutenant Marston;— 
Lieutenant Wibmer;—Lieutenant Sinclair. 

1st battalion 12th regiment native infantry.—Ensign Dalton. 

2d battalion 12th regiment native infantry.—Major Gregory;—Captain Fletcher; 
Lieutenant Ryan. 

1st battalion 15th regiment native infantry.—Colonel Mac Donald. 

2d battalion 16th regiment native infantry.—Lieutenant Colonel White;—Ensign 
G. Deane Heathcote. 

(Signed) J. GERARD, Adjutant General. 


Y 2 


Report 


' $3 


64 ' APPENDIX D. 


Report of the Ordnance , fcsV. captured at Lasivarce on the 1 st November 1803. 

Camp at Laswaree, 8d November 1803. 


Number of 
Guns. 

Nature. 

Remarks. 


1 

Brass 

18 pounder carronade 

16 ditto ditto 


•* 

J? «• 

6 

Ditto 

1 unserviceable. 

E t* 

26 

Ditto 

6 pounders 

4 ditto 

4 

Ditto 

4 ditto 


2 2 

16 

Ditto 

3 ditto 

1 unserviceable. 

^ § 

1 

Ditto 

2| ditto 

1 ditto. 


2 

Iron 

16 ditto 

1 ditto. 

§ -3 ‘ 

2 

Ditto 

2^ ditto gallopers 
l| ditto ditto 


^ § 

2 

Ditto 


§ S 

2 

Brass 

8 inch mortars 


S 

2 - 

Ditto 

8 inch howitzer 



4 

Ditto 

6 ditto ditto 


0 -Q 
"§ -VS 

1 

Ditto 5, 8 ditto ditto 


& & 

1 

Ditto 5, 4 ditto ditto 

< 

g* 

2 

Ditto 5, 2 ditto ditto 




71 pieces of cannon of different calibres. 

64 tumbrils complete, laden with ammunition, and 44 stand of colours. 

Ditto ditto blown up on the field of battle, the number not ascertained. 

The whole of the abovementioned ordnance appears serviceable, with the exception of those men¬ 
tioned in the remarks. 

The iron guns are of European manufacture. The brass guns, mortars and howitzers have been 
cast in India, one Dutch six-pounder excepted. The dimensions are in general those of the French. 
The mortars and howitzers are furnished with elevating screws made, by a simple and ingenious ad¬ 
justment, to give either of them the double capacity of mortar and howitzer. The ammunition is 
made up in the same manner as that taken at Delhi. 

57 carts or hackrees laden with matchlocks, musquets and stores, also twelve artificers’ carts. 

(Signed) - J. GERARD, Adj. Gen. 

J. ROBINSON, Capt.. Com. the Artillery. 

- 

Published by command of his Excellency the Most Noble the Gov. Gen. in Council, 

J. LUMSDEN, Chief Sec. to the Government. 





Fort 



V 








APPENDIX D. 

Fort William , November ig, 1803. 

ADVICES have this day been received by his Excellency the Most Noble the Go¬ 
vernor General, from the resident at Hyderabad, under date the 6th instant, stating, 
that intelligence had been received by his Highness the Soobahdar of the Dekan, of 
the surrender of the city of Boorhanpore, to the forces under the Command of Co¬ 
lonel Stevenson, on the 16th of October ; and of the capitulation of the important 
fortress of Asseerghur on the 21st, to Colonel Stevenson. 

The garrison of Asseerghur are prisoners of war. 

The official accounts of these important successes have not yet been received from 
the Honourable Major General Wellesley. 

Published by command of his Excellency the Most Noble 
the Governor General in Council, 

J. LUMSDEN, Chief Secretary to the Government. 

General Orders , by bis Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General . 

Fort William , November 19, 1803. 

A Royal salute to be fired from the ramparts of Fort William, at sun-set, in 
honour of the surrender of the city of Boorhanpore, to the forces under the com¬ 
mand of Colonel Stevenson, on the 16th of October ; and of the capitulation of the 
important fortress of Asseerghur on the 21st of October, to Colonel Stevenson. 
The garrison of Asseerghur are prisoners of war. 

* By command of his Excellency, 

J. ARMSTRONG, Acting Military Secretary. 


Fort William , November 30, 1803. 

A dispatch, of which the following is a copy, has been this day received, by his 

Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General, from the Honourable Major 

General Wellesley. 

my lord. Camp, November 6 , 1803. 

I NOW proceed to give your Excellency a detailed account of Colonel Stevenson’s 
operations against Asseerghur. 

On die 16th of October, he advanced to Asseerghur, and encamped three miles 
south of the fort. The remains of the enemy’s infantry had fled towards the Ner- 
buddah on the preceding day, in the state in which I reported them to be, in my 
letter of the 24th of October* j and Colonel Stevenson therefore determined to at¬ 
tack Asseerghur. 

On the 18th, he reconnoitred the fort, attended by a squadron of cavalry, and 
the native picquets of the infantry ; and having seen a favourable opportunity, at¬ 
tacked the pettah, and carried it, and made a lodgement within one hundred and 
fifty yards of the lower wall of the fort. In the evening lie reinforced the troops 
in the pettah by a battalion. 

On the 19th, all the preparations were made for carrying on the siege; and two 
batteries were ready to open at two o’clock in the afternoon of the 20th; one to 
breach the upper wall, and another, of four brass twelve-pounders, to destroy the 
defences of the lower wall. 

On the 1 8th, Colonel Stevenson had sent a flag of truce to the Killedar to sum¬ 
mon him to surrender the fort, to which message he did not receive a decided 


* Not received. 


answer. 




166 


APPENDIX D. 

answer. The communication was continued; but Colonel Stevenson did not relax his 
operations against the fort, as there was reason to believe that the negotiation was car¬ 
ried on, only to give time to Dowlut Rao Scindiah to come to its relief. Before 
opening his batteries, Colonel Stevenson apprized the Killedar of the terms on which 
he should surrender the fort; which were, that the garrison should march out with 
their private property, and be allowed to go where they might think proper, and 
that their arrears should be paid to the amount of twenty thousand rupees. 

After the batteries had opened about an hour, a white flag was shewn from the 
walls of the fort, which was the signal which had been agreed upon, in case the 
terms should be accepted ; hostages were sent down, and an engagement made that 
the fort should be delivered up on the following morning. It was accordingly eva¬ 
cuated ; the garrison carried off their property in security; and received the sum 
agreed to be paid to them. 

Colonel Stevenson mentions in high terms the conduct of the officers and troops 
under his command ; and I cannot omit to take this opportunity of expressing to 
your Excellency my sense of the merits of Colonel Stevenson, and of the body of 
troops under his command. Upon every occasion I have received from the Colonel 
the most cordial and zealous assistance; and the troops under his command are in 
the highest state of discipline and order, and fit for any service in which they can 
be employed. 

On the 16th, nine officers, four serjeants, and one matross, formerly in the service 
of Dowlut Rao Scindiah, delivered themselves up to Colonel Stevenson, under your 
Excellency’s proclamation of the 29th of August. 

I have the honour to enclose a list of their names, and a copy of the order issued 
by Colonel Stevenson to provide for their subsistence. Lieutenant Stuart also deli¬ 
vered himself up at Poonah in the end of the last month. I have called for accounts 
of the regulated pay and allowances which those persons received in the service of 
Dowlut Rao Scindiah, which I shall hereafter have the honour of transmitting to 
your Excellency. 

I have the honour to enclose a return of the killed and wounded of the troops 
under the cojnmand of Colonel Stevenson, during the operations against Asseerghur. 
Hereafter I shall have the honour of transmitting returns of the ordnance, stores, 
grain, and other property captured in that fort. 

I have the honour to be, my Lord, with the greatest respect, 

Your Excellency’s most obedient. 

And faithful humble servant, 

(Signed) ARTHUR WELLESLEY. 

His Excellency the Governor General. 

Return of killed , wounded , and missing , in the corps composing the subsidiary free , at the 

siege of A ss eerghur. 

First Battalion 6 th Regiment. 

1 rank and file killed. — 1 drummer—4 rank and file wounded. 

Detachment Corps of Pioneers. 

1 Puckally killed. — 1 pioneer wounded. 

(Signed) J. COLEBROOKE, 

Dep. Adj. Gen. Subsidiary Force- 
Camp , three miles south of Asseerghur , October 26, 1803. 


Roll 


APPENDIX D. 


Roll of Europeans late in the service of Dowlut Rao Scindiah, who have surrendered 
themselves to Colonel James Stevenson. 


Names. 

Rank. 

Country. 

John James Dupon 

John Mercier 

Alexander Mars 

John Berdard 

Jooken Caumbra 

John Padroos 

Francis Carooile 

Manuel Joaza 

Joaza Castoo 

Anthony Dalmard 
Joseph Roman 

Joseph Anthony 

John Ammaral 

Name not ascertained 

Captain 

Captain Lieutenant 
Ensign 

Ensign 

Ensign 

Ensign 

Ensign 

Ensign 

Ensign 

Serjeant 

Serjeant 

Serjeant 

Matross 

Ranks as Serjeant 

Holland 

France 

England 

Portugal 

Portugal 

Portugal 

Portugal 

Portugal 

Portugal 

Portugal 

Portugal 

Portugal 

Portugal 


(Signed) J. COLEBROOKE, 

Deputy Adj. Gen. Subsidiary Force. 

Camp at Boorhanpore , October 16, 1803. 

Extract from G. 0 . by Colonel James Stevenson, commanding the Subsidiary Force. 

THE European officers and serjeants, who have this day been received from the 
service of Dowlut Rao Scindiah, and all Europeans who may in future come in 
from the service of that chief, or any power confederated with him, are to be 
under the charge of the Deputy Adjutant General, and who will draw pay for them 
agreeable to rates which will be hereafter determined. 

(A true extract.) (Signed) J. COLEBROOKE. 

Camp at Boorhanpore , October 16, 1803. 

Published by command of his Excellency the Most Noble 
the Governor General in Council, 

J. LUMSDEN, Chief Secretary to the Government. 


Fort William , November 30, 1803. 

The following extracts from dispatches, which have been received by his Excellency 
the Most Noble the Governor General, from his Excellency the Commander in 
Chief, and from the Honourable Major General Wellesley, are published for general 
information. 

To his Excellency the Most Noble Marquis Wellesley, Governor General , &c. &c. 

ftlY LORD, 

IN the return of ordnance, &c. captured from the enemy in the action of the 1st 
instant, I omitted to mention to your Lordship, that I had obtained upwards of 
sixteen hundred bullocks, several elephants, and horses and a very large number of 
camels. 


Waggons 













168 


APPENDIX D. 

Waggons have likewise been taken containing a very great quantity of arms, be¬ 
sides the muskets, matchlocks, &c. thrown down on the field of battle, which 
amount to upwards of five thousand. 

One damaged piece of ordnance has been found in a well, into which it had been 
thrown by the enemy, which completes the return to seventy-two pieces of cannon. 

I Lave the honour to be, my Lord, 

Your Lordship’s most faithful and humble servant, 

(Signed) G. LAKE. 

Head Quarters, Camp, near Gissowly,November 9 , 1803 . 


To his Excellency the Most Noble Marquis Wellesley, Governor General, &c. £sV. 

MY LORD, 

JAN Khan Moattemmed-oad-Dowlah arrived in my camp a few days ago, sent by 
the King of Delhi, with a Khelaut to me, and with congratulations on the late 
important victory of Laswaree. 

Anxious to receive this public testimony of satisfaction at the success of the British 
arms, and his Majesty’s private mark of favour, with every demonstration of respect 
and honour, I ordered a tent to be pitched without the precincts of my camp, for 
the reception of the ambassador, and proceeded thither yesterday morning, attended 
by my staff, and accompanied by a large escort of cavalry. 

I received his Majesty’s congratulations, and the dress which he did me the honour 
to send me, with the necessary form and ceremony. 

Having returned my public acknowledgments to his Majesty, and testified the 
high sense I entertained of the honour conferred on me, 1 returned to my camp, 
highly gratified by the evident marks of pleasure and satisfaction which I perceived 
in his Majesty’s ambassador, and in every Mussulman who was a spectator of the 
ceremony. 

I have the honour to be, my Lord, 

Your Lordship’s most faithful and humble servant, 

(Signed) G. LAKE. 

Head Quarters, Camp, Pahisser, November 17 , 1803 . 

His Excellency the Governor General, 
my lord, Camp, 39 miles North from Aurungabad, October 10 , 1803 . 

I HAVE the honour to inclose the copy of a letter which I have received from Cap¬ 
tain O’Donnell, of the 1st regiment of cavalry, in which he gives a detailed account 
of an affair of no very great importance, but in which he and the detachment of 
troops under his command appear to have conducted themselves in an exemplary 
manner. 

I likewise inclose the copy of an order, which I have issued to the troops under 
my command upon this occasion. 

The party which attacked Captain O’Donnell arer a banditti, which infest the fron¬ 
tiers of his Highness the Soubah of the Dekan, and that of his Highness the Peish- 
wah ; and are formidable from their numbers and boldness. It does not appear that 
they belong to any particular chief, although it is said that they belong to the late 
Killedar of Ahmednuggur ; but I have reason to believe that this person discharged 
all his troops, and that he joined Dowlut Rao Scindiah in camp. 

As there is no established authority, or even an acknowledged boundary on any 
part of the frontier, and the Killedars and other officers on both sides have been in 

the 




APPENDIX D. 

the habit of carrying on private wars against each other. I am induced to believe 
that they have encouraged this banditti, for the purpose of their own wars. While 
I was on the frontier of course their operations ceased; but they have now recom¬ 
menced them, and I suspect that they are too strong for their former employers. 

I have the honour to be, my Lord, 

Your Excellency’s most obedient and faithful humble servant, 

(Signed) ARTHUR WELLESLEY. 

His Excellency the Governor General . 


To Captain Barclay, Deputy Adjutant General of Mysore , &c. &c. 

Sir, 

I HAVE to request you will acquaint the Honourable Major General Wellesley with 
my return to this station, accompanied by Lieutenants Bryant and Morgan, and the 
detachment of the ist battalion 12th regiment native infantry, as also the circum¬ 
stances which obliged us to adopt this plan. On the morning of the 27th ultimo, as 
the detachment approached the mud fort of Kurjet, about twenty-two coss to 
S.S.E.of this place, we perceived a body of peons drawn up a little to the left of the 
place. I immediately ordered a jemadar and twelve sepoys to conduct the followers 
and baggage then up, under the walls of the fort, and with the remainder I advanced 
to reconnoitre, and learn who they belonged to. As we advanced they continued to 
retire. On ascending a small rising ground, I was much surprized at discovering a 
large body of horse drawn up in the bed of a nullah, and not more than seven hun¬ 
dred yards in front of the ground, which our little party then occupied. In this 
situation I was under the necessity of returning to the fort. While marching back, 
the horse made tw r o efforts to get between us and the place, but failed in both, and 
suffered some loss in the attempt. It was some time before I could get admittance 
into the fort: on entering I ordered Lieutenant Morgan, with twenty-five sepoys, 
to take-post at the principal gateway, and, accompanied by Lieutenant Bryant, and 
the remainder of the sepoys, I proceeded to examine the size and state of the place. 
We had not proceeded more than half way round, when w r e were obliged to return 
to the assistance of the party left at the gate. I had just joined Mr. Morgan and 
formed the w r hole of the sepoys, when about three hundred of the enemy’s infantry 
entered at different parts of the fort, and advanced wdthin one hundred yards of us; 
they kept up a galling fire upon our people for about half an hour, killed one sepoy 
and wounded two more. Our situation at this time was extremely precarious, with¬ 
out some immediate step was taken to oblige the enemy to leave the place. We 
could spare but fifty men to oppose three hundred, without giving up the gate, 
through which the w hole of their cavalry might attack us in rear. However, 
with this little party we sallied out on them, and pursued them from street to street, 
until w r e drove them entirely out of the place. Their loss must have been very 
considerable, they left twenty-five men killed behind them, mostly Arabs. About 
two hours after this they entered the fort a second time, more in numbers, and we 
again drove them out with great loss on their side. From the great extent of the 
place and its being accessible at so many different places, even for cavalry, that I found 
it utterly impossible to keep them out, added to this, our ammunition was nearly 
expended. The villagers would render no assistance, on the contrary encouraged 
the enemy to come in, and gave them every information regarding our situation. 
During the night of the 27th, I employed the whole of the followers of every de¬ 
scription, in barricading the different streets leading to the post w*e had taken, pro- 

Z * cured 



170 


APPENDIX D. 

cured water for the people to serve them during the day, and acquainted Captain 
Graham at Ahmednuggur with our situation. 

About seven o’clock in the morning of the 28th, I learned that a large party had 
taken post in the second Killedar’s house, though the day before he positively 
refused to admit a small party of sepoys, even to procure a little water, which we 
were much distressed for the want of. About eight, I could plainly see from the 
works over the gate, that the place was crowded with both horse and foot, and that 
they were preparing to attack. At ten, they opened a heavy fire of musquetry on us 
from the tops of the principal houses in the fort, and continued this for the space of 
two hours, without being able to hurt any of our people; gaining confidence from 
our silence, they advanced on us from all the places accessible around. By this 
time I had sixty brave fellows ready to receive them, which they did in the most 
gallant manner, and in return attacked them and drove them from every part of 
the fort; took their standard, killed one of the Sirdars, and about fifty of the 
men. This was the last time they attempted to disturb us, and we remained this 
and the" whole of the next day perfectly quiet. The cavalry, to the amount of ten 
or twelve hundred, still continued to hover about the place. Captain Lucas, with 
three companies of the 2d battalion 3d regiment^ arrived on the morning of the 
30th, and relieved us from our disagreeable situation. 

I feel it a duty, which I most cheerfully fulfil, in reporting to you, Sir, the 
cordial and able assistance I received during this short but active service, from 
Lieutenants Bryant and Morgan, and I in part attribute to their gallant exertions 
the saving of our little detachment from total destruction. The sepoys in general 
I have reason to be pleased with their conduct, as also of that part of the native 
officers belonging to the first battalion 12th regiment native infantry. 

Allow me, now. Sir, to entertain the pleasing hope, that our little exertions on 
the present occasion may meet with the approbation of the Honourable General 
'Wellesley. 

Herewith I beg leave to enclose a return of killed, wounded, and missing. 

I have the honour to be, Sir, 

Your obedient and humble servant, 

(Signed) H. O’DONNELL, 

Ahmednuggur , October 3, 1803. Captain 1st Regiment of Cavalry. 

(True Copy) (Signed) P. BARCLAY, 

Dep. Adj. General, Mysore. 

Extract from General Orders, by the Honourable Major General Wellesley , dated Camp 
at Bmkenholey i \Oth October, 1803 . 

MAJOR General Wellesley has received a report from Captain O’Donnell of the 
1 st regiment of cavalry, from which it appears, that being on his march from 
Ahmednuggur to join the division of the army under the command of Major 
General Campbell, with the company of the 1st battalion 12th regiment under 
Lieutenant Morgan, and the supernumerary native non-commissioned officers, 
heretofore belonging to corps in camp, and lately drafted into the extra battalions’ 
he was attacked by a body of horse and of 'peons, of such numbers, as to induce 
Captain O’Donnell to think it necessary to take post in the village of Corjet Caray- 
gaum. 

Here the attack was renewed upon this party with additional violence, and Cap- 
• tain 



APPENDIX D. 

tain O’Donnell finding that his post was a bad one,, and at all events too large for 
his party, barricaded, and otherwise strengthened such parts of it as he was of 
opinion he could defend. He there remained with his small party without throw¬ 
ing away his ammunition, excepting when he could do it with effect injudicious 
sallies, in three of which he killed a number of the enem y, far exceeding that of his 
party, which remained in security till it was relieved from Ahmednuggur, at the 
distance of above forty miles. 

Major General Wellesley returns his thanks to Captain O'Donnell, and Lieutenant 
Bryant of the ist regiment of cavalry, and to Lieutenant Morgan, and the com¬ 
pany of the Jst battalion 12th regiment, under his command, for their conduct 
upon this occasion. 

He has been particular in detailing the circumstances of this affair, in general 
orders, in order that all officers may know the advantage which, with a small party 
of men, they may take, even of the most ruinous village, to protect themselves 
and the parties of troops under their command. 

To the division of the army under his command it was scarcely necessary for 
Major General Wellesley to point out, that a small body of infantry, that keeps its 
order and reserves its fire, has but little to fear from cavalry. Butin case any 
officer in charge of a party should be obliged from circumstances to take post, he 
sees in the example set by Captain O Donnell the advantages he can take of the 
numerous fortified villages in this country, and the credit he can gain, and the 
service he can render, by thus defending himself. 

Major General Wellesley will not fail to report to the Commander in Chief, his 
sense of the conduct of Captain O’Donnell, and of the party under his command. 

A true extract, (Signed) P. BARCLAY, 

Dep. Adj. Gen. Mysore. 

His Excellency the Governor General . 

my lord, Camp at Cheese Kair, November 2, 1803 . 

AFTER I had sent off my dispatch to your Excellency of the 24th of October, I 
received authentic accounts that the Rajah of Berar had passed through the hills 
which form the boundary of Candeish, and had moved towards the river Godavery. 

I therefore ascended the Adjuntee Ghaut on the 25th, and continued my march to 
the southward on the 26th, and passed Aurungabad on the 29th. 

2. The Rajah had advanced gradually to the eastward, and was at Lakeegaun, 
about twenty miles north from Puttun, when I arrived at Aurungabad; and be¬ 
tween that night and the night of the 31st, during the whole of which time I was 
in his neighbourhood, he moved his camp five times. * 

3. On the 31st, he detached a body consisting of 5000 horse, to endeavour to 
intercept a convoy consisting of 14,000 bullocks, which was going forward to join 
the troops on the frontier. This convoy was protected by three companies of the 
2d of the 3d Madras native infantry, with two 3-pounders, under Captain Baynes , 
which detachment, with 400 Mysore horse, has for some time been employed in 
convoying grain from the districts south of the Godavery to my camp, and by a 
company from the subsidiary force, and two companies from the corps serving at 
Hyderabad, under the command of Captain Seton. 

4. They had marched from the Godavery on the morning of the 31st, and 
reached Amber, where they were attacked, and they succeeded in beating of!' the 

Z 2 enemy, 



lyi 


APPENDIX D. 

enemy, and In securing the convoy, which arrived in safety in my camp yesterday, 
notwithstanding the great superiority of numbers by which they were attacked. 

5. I have the honour to enclose copies of the reports of this action, which I have 
received from Captain Baynes; upon which I have to observe, that it affords 
another instance of what can be done by disciplined infantry, determined to do 
their duty, against very superior numbers of cavalry. 

6. I beg leave also to take this opportunity to draw your Lordship's notice to the 

Mysore cavalry, under Bishnapah Pundit. This corps, which consists of 2,000 
men, have performed all the light troops’ duties of this division of the army ; since 
I was detached from the Toombudra in the month of March last, they have per¬ 
formed the duties with the utmost cheerfulness, and a zeal which I have never 
before witnessed in troops of this description. They have frequently been engaged 
with the enemy’s light troops, have always conducted themselves well, and have 
lost many men and horses. I have the honour to be, 

My Lord, 

Your Excellency’s most obedient. 

And faithful humble servant, 
(Signed) ARTHUR WELLESLEY. 

(Copy.) To Captain Bar day. Deputy Adjutant General, &c. 

SIR, 

I BEG you will report to the Honourable Major General Wellesley, that I was 
attacked this day about two o’clock, P. M. by about four or five thousand horse. 
They came on at first as if determined to charge, but receiving a few shots from our 
guns, they retired, and though they frequently came near us, as if to charge, and 
some of them w ithin musket shot, they were always driven back. Our loss is one 
European wounded, two sepoys wounded, and some Mysoreans killed'and wounded,, 
besides a few (perhaps three) horses killed. The loss of the enemy is much greater, 
particularly in horses. I beg you to say to the General, that I shall take post till I 
receive his instructions j I write this by moonlight, which will, I hope, apologize 
for haste. We were under arms till about sunset; at which time they were out of 

(Signed) THO. BAYNES, 

Umber, October 31 , 1803 . Capt. commanding a Detach. 

To Captain Barclay, Deputy Adjutant General ’, Zfc. 

SIR, 

I LAST night had the honour to inform you, t?.at I had repulsed a body of 
Bhonselah’s horse, and have now (for the information of the Honourable Major 
General Wellesley) to make you more fully informed of the circumstances. 

I arrived with my convoy about twelve o'clock, and encamped near the town, 
with my right flank to it, and my rear protected by a hill. At two o’clock P. M. 
the attack began (without more than ten minutes warning of their approach) by 
throwing great numbers of rockets and advancing upon our left: this obliged me 
to change my front by wheeling to the left; at the same time some of them were 
within musket shot. 1 then opened my guns, which stopped their approach ; they 
at this time moved round, as if to gain the rear, where the Brinjarees were. This 
movement obliged me to detach a party to cover them, and'having previously 
posted a company on the hill on my rear, my line became very small j to prevent 

their 


jr 




APPENDIX D. 


their knowing my exact strength, I drew up the Mysore horse in our line. They 
came on repeatedly as it to charge, but were always stopped by our guns. They 
continued to rocket us till dark, when they retired. I am sorry to add that one 
hundred of the Gram bullocks were carried off, and some Brinjaree bullocks (per¬ 
haps one hundred) while at grass. I have the honour to enclose a list of the 
killed and wounded. 

(Signed) THOS. BAYNES, Capt. commanding a Detachment. 


List of Casualties in ihe Attack by the Marhatta Ho'se, Oct. 31 , 1803 . 


His Majesty's 78th regiment — — 

2d battalion Madras artillery — — 

2d ditto of 2d regiment native infantry — 

2d ditto of 3d ditto — — — 

2d ditto of 5th ditto — — — 

Total—one private of the 78th regiment, and five 


1 private wounded. 
1 sepoy ditto 


3 ditto 
1 ditto 
1 ditto 


ditto 

ditto 

ditto 









Mysore Cavalry, wounded, killed, and missing. 

Wounded. Killed. Missing. 

Men — 130 

Horses — 512 

(Signed) THO. BAYNES, Capt. commanding a Detachment. 

True Copies, (Signed) R. BARCLAY. Dep. Adj. Gen. 

Published by command of his Excellency the Most Noble 
the Governor General in Council, 

J. LUMSDEN, Chief Sec. to the Govt. 


Fort William , December 5, 1803. 

His Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General has this day received from 
the Honourable Major General Wellesley, a dispatch dated Jaum, November 11, 1803, 
communicating the intelligence, that a Vakeel had been sent to Major General Wel¬ 
lesley by Dowlut Rao Scindiah to treat for peace, and had arrived in Major General 
Wellesley's camp. 

The name of this Vakeel, who is a person of high family, is Jeswunt Rao Goor- 
para, and he is the nephew of the late Morari Rao of Gooty. The usual visits of 
ceremony had taken place, and the first conference had been held between Major 
General Wellesley, and the Vakeel of Dowlut Rao Scindiah, on the subject of peace. 

Published by command of his Excellency the Most Noble 
the Governor General in Council, 

h LUMSDEN, Chief Sec. to the Government. 


Fort William December 14, 1803. 

A Dispatch, of which the following is an extract, has been this day received, by his 
Excellency the Most Noble the Governor General, from the Honourable Major 
General Wellesley. 

my lord, Camp , Ferdapore , October 24, 1803. 

I have the pleasure to inform your Excellency, that Colonel Stevenson took pos¬ 
session 




*74 


APPENDIX D. 

session of the city of Boorhanpoor, without opposition, on the 16th instant; he 
marched to Asseerghur on the j 7th, took possession of the pettah on the 1 8th, 
opened a battery against the fort on the 20th, and obtained possession of it on the 
morning of the 21st. I have not yet received a detailed account of themanner in 
which Colonel Stevenson obtained possession of this important fortress, or whether 
he sustained any loss in the attack of the pettah on the 18th, or of the fort. 

2. After I had arrived at Poolmery about i 6 miles north from Aurungabad, I 
found that the enemy did not advance to the southward, as I had been informed 
they first intended, and in the night of the 15th, I received a particular account of 
the disposition of their troops, baggage, &c. which convinced me that they intended 
to interrupt Colonel Stevenson’s operations at Asseerghur. 

3. 1 therefore marched on the 16th to the northward, and descended the Ghaut 
on the 19th. Scindiah had moved to the northward, but he halted as soon as he 
found I had returned; and he was yesterday at Aboon on the Taptee. The Rajah 
of Berar has separated from him, and, it is said, has gone towards Chandore. I 
suspect that the report has been circulated with a view to draw me to the southward 
again; but as Colonel Stevenson has got possession of Asseerghur, and is fully equal 
to any thing that can be sent against him, it is my intention to reascend the Ghaut 
immediately. 

4. Sixteen officers and serjeants belonging to the campoos have joined Colonel 
Stevenson, under your Excellency’s proclamation of the 29th of August. I will 
hereafter send a list of their names, and an account of the pay each is to receive. 
The infantry retired towards the Nerbudda when Colonel Stevenson approached 
Boorhanpoor, and by all accounts it is completely destroyed and disorganized. It 
is impossible to form it into corps again, and it is not probable that it will ever be 
of any service to Dowlut Rao Scindiah. 

5. I have directed Colonel Stevenson to leave a garrison in Asseerghur, and to 
deliver the districts depending upon that fortress to the charge of the servants of the 
Soobah of ihe Dekan. Your Excellency will observe, that this is the last of the 
pGSoCSsibns of Dowlut Rao Scindiah in the Dekan ; and the operations of the troops 
will now be directed against those of the Rajah of Berar. 

I have the honour to be, 

My Lord, 

With the greatest respect. 

Your Excellency’s 

Most obedient and faithful humble servant, 

ARTHUR WELLESLEY 

The detailed account of the siege and surrender of Asseerghur, was published in 
the Calcutta Gazette Extraordinary of the 1st of December 1803. Major General 
Wellesley’s original dispatch, dated 25th of October 1803, has not been re¬ 
ceived. The foregoing extract is taken from the duplicate copy of that dispatch, 
which reached Fort William this morning. 

Published by command of his Excellency the Most Noble 
the Governor General in Council, 

J. LUMSDEN, Chief Sec. to the Govt. 


Fori 


APPENDIX D. 


Fort William December 14,1803. 

Advices have been this day received from Lieutenant Colonel P. Powell, dated 
Camp at Calpee the 4th December 1803, communicating the satisfactory informa¬ 
tion of the surrender of the fort of Calpee, to the detachment under the command 
of Colonel Powell, at eleven o’clock on the forenoon of that day. 

The Killedar having refused to surrender the fort on the summons of Colonel 
Powell, a battery of two eighteen-pounders and one howitzer was constructed within 
two hundred yards of the walls, and opened soon after day-light on the 4th. A 
heavy fire was kept up till eleven A. M. when the garrison proposed to surrender, 
and was permitted to march out with their arms and private property. The fortress 
was immediately occupied by a detachment of British troops. 

Captain D. Macleod of the 2d battalion of the eleventh regiment of native infantry- 
received a severe wound while employed on duty at the batteiy, and one sepoy was 
also wounded : no other casualties of any description have occurred. 

The inhabitants of Calpee have manifested the greatest confidence in the British 
Government, and satisfaction at the treatment’which they experienced from Lieute¬ 
nant Colonel Powell. Many of the inhabitants who had quitted their habitations on 
the approach of the British troops, returned to the town immediately after the sur¬ 
render of the fort to Colonel Powell. 

Published by command of his Excellency the Most Noble 
the Governor General in Council, 

J. LUMSDEN, Chief Sec. to the Gov. 





APPENDIX 


( '75 ) 


f / > 

APPENDIX E. 


Return of the Ordnance, Ammunition and Colours taken from the Enemy from the %th of August until 
the 1 st of November 1803, according to the Official Returns ’which have been received by the Governor 
General. 


1 

Stands 

GUNS. 

Hcwit- 


Wall 








Mortars. 

Muskets. 

Tumbrils. 

Cam. 


lours. 

Brass. 

Iron. 

zers. 

Pieces. 

Baroach - 15th August - 
Aly-Ghur * 4th September 

15 

33 

60 

4 

2 

182 




Delhi - llth ditto 


52 

8 

7 

1 



37 


Assye - 23d ditto 

7 

69 

22 

7 






Agra (Town) 10th October. 


26 






26 

29 

Bundelcund 13th ditto 


2 






2 


Agra (Fort) 17th ditto 
Cuttack - - ditto 

4 

76 

86 


1 



33 


Laswaree - 1st November 

44 

54 

7 

9 

2 


5000 

64 

57 

Total ' - 

70 

312 

183 

27 

5 

182 

5000 

162 

86 


Abstract— —Brass Guns 

312 

Iron ditto 

183 

Howitzers 

27 

Mortars 

5 

Wall Pieces 

182 


709 Besides four pieces of ordnance thrown into the river 
Kaitna by the enemy at the Battle of Assye. 

N. B. The ordnance enumerated in this return is exclusive of the ordnance captured at Delhi, 
Ferozeabad, Ahmednuggur, Jalnapoor, Baroach, Powanghur, Cuttack-, Boorhanpoor, and Asseerghur,- 
of which the official returns have not yet been received at Fort William. 


FINIS. 



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